HISTORY REPEATING
A 2014 Sports Illustrated article predicted that the, then lowly, Houston Astros would win the World Series in three years. At the time, this claim seemed absolutely insane, but sure enough, in 2017, the Astros clinched the title. As a result, shockwaves reverberated through the sports media community at the successful prediction. The article explained how the Astros would build a roster of seasoned vets and rising stars to create a dynasty capable of winning multiple rings. Of course, the MLB is a different animal, but what if an NFL team could recreate this scenario years later? Specifically, the Philadelphia Eagles.
YOUNG DEVELOPING TALENT
Undoubtedly, the Eagles have a bright future with a myriad of young stars and draft capital to build around. And GM Howie Roseman, one of the best in the game, has swung some great trades over the year. Most recently on draft night, Roseman brokered a deal sending a first-rounder and a fourth-rounder to the Titans for AJ Brown. Roseman also netted the Saints’ 2023 first-rounder.
Therefore, the biggest question regarding Philadelphia is Jalen Hurts’s development. In 2021, Hurts made positive gains with 26 total TDs and 10 interceptions. However, if Hurts underperforms in 2022, the Eagles have the draft capital to make a move for a rookie or high-end veteran QB. I believe Hurts will make the next level and become an elite QB. He has the tools but needs to work on accuracy.
Furthermore, Devonta Smith has the look of a rising star. Meanwhile, Jalen Reagor could either turn his career around or be a trade piece. Philly also has veteran talent, such as Darius Slay Sr., Jason Kelce, and Haason Reddick, the latter of which is a recent signing.
GETTING INTO POSITION
Of course, for the Eagles to win the title, they need to start winning some division titles and playoff games. Currently, the Dallas Cowboys appear to be the only big NFC East threat. And even the Cowboys are facing uncertainty surrounding Dak Prescott and Ezekiel Elliot. The newly monikered Washington Commanders do not even know if they will have the same owner next season. The New York Giants are entering Year 4 of the Daniel Jones experiment, and continue to look for answers with Saquon Barkley. Recently, the NFC East has struggled. So do not expect a big year for anyone except maybe the Cowboys.
If the Eagles successfully develop Jalen Hurts into an elite passer, the next step toward creating a true contender is building the defense. Jordan Davis and Nakobe Dean, the Eagles’s two biggest defense rookies, can potentially develop into Pro Bowl-caliber players. However, Darius Slay is aging, so adding another young corner should be a defensive priority. Fletcher Cox is nearing the end of his career, but Davis should be a great replacement, if not better. The Philadelphia Eagles have a bright future, and that future may very well contain a championship.
