The Philadelphia Eagles are gearing up for the playoffs with a significant shift in their offensive strategy: a potential increase in quarterback Jalen Hurts’ running plays. As the team prepares to face the San Francisco 49ers on March 15, 2024, the urgency of the postseason might see Hurts return to a dimension of his game that has been largely absent this season.
While neither offensive coordinator Kevin Patullo nor head coach Nick Sirianni have confirmed this adjustment publicly, the sentiment within the organization suggests a readiness to leverage Hurts’ mobility. Patullo emphasized the importance of winning games, stating, “Our whole goal has just been to win games… whatever we need to do is what we’re going to do to win the game.” This reflects a shift in focus as the stakes rise in the postseason.
Sirianni echoed this sentiment, hinting that Hurts’ versatility could be key in the upcoming matchup. “Jalen, his ability to run, pass, get us in and out of plays, I think he can do a lot of things really, really outstanding,” he noted. This adaptability could become crucial against a formidable 49ers defense.
Throughout the regular season, statistical indicators showed the Eagles’ offense appeared strong. Hurts threw a career-high 25 touchdowns, while key players like receivers A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith each surpassed 1,000 yards receiving. However, many observers noted that the offense struggled to maintain cohesion, often failing to deliver two complete halves of football.
Despite the impressive statistics, Hurts recorded only 105 rushing attempts, the lowest of his tenure as the Eagles’ starter. This reduction in his running game limited the offense’s ability to keep defenses honest, allowing opponents to focus more on star players like Brown and running back Saquon Barkley. Increased rushing attempts by Hurts are expected to diversify the Eagles’ offensive strategy, potentially leading to greater success on the field.
Injuries have also plagued the Eagles, particularly affecting their offensive line. With three-fifths of the line missing significant time, Patullo acknowledged the challenges faced this season. “Play-calling has been an issue,” he admitted, citing a balance between creativity and basic execution as a concern. Yet, with Hurts potentially more involved in the running game and a healthier offensive line, there is optimism that the Eagles can establish a more effective attack as they enter the playoffs.
Lane Johnson’s Possible Return
Another positive development for the Eagles is the potential return of Pro Bowl right tackle Lane Johnson. Johnson has been sidelined since suffering a Lisfranc sprain in Week 11 against Detroit. His gradual return to practice has raised hopes within the organization. “Lane’s the best right tackle in the game, so if we get him back, it’s tremendous,” Patullo remarked, highlighting Johnson’s impact on both leadership and performance.
Johnson’s presence on the field could provide a significant boost to the Eagles’ offensive line, enhancing both the run game and pass protection. The energy he brings is expected to be palpable, further motivating the team as they strive for success in the postseason.
The Eagles have also made recent roster moves, re-signing defensive back Parry Nickerson to the practice squad while placing rookie defensive back Brandon Johnson on the injury list due to an ankle issue. Johnson had made his first career start in the regular season finale against the Commanders, contributing two tackles and a pass defended.
As the Eagles look to solidify their game plan against the 49ers, the emphasis will be on adapting their strategy to maximize Hurts’ potential as a dual-threat quarterback. The combination of a renewed focus on the quarterback run and the possible return of key players could be the factors that determine their success as they compete for the championship.
