Jim Harbaugh's arrival in Los Angeles could hinder Eagles' coordinator plans
Former Dolphins defensive coordinator Vic Fangio might be the most sought-after coach this offseason.
A day after "mutually agreeing to part ways" with the Dolphins, Fangio's 2024 destination is all of a sudden filled with intrigue.
ESPN's Adam Schefter initially said Miami decided to part with Fangio so the longtime NFL coach could be closer to his family in Philadelphia.
With the Eagles' opening at defensive coordinator, anyone who can calculate "two plus two" could see where this was headed.
However, Jim Harbaugh's arrival in Los Angeles might throw a wrench in Philadelphia's plans.
Fangio served as Harbaugh's defensive coordinator with the 49ers from 2011-14. As ESPN's Bill Barnwell noted, the Chargers ran a version of Fangio's defense under former head coach Brandon Staley, so if Fangio was hired, the team wouldn't have to spend time learning the terminology of a different scheme. Los Angeles also already has the kinds of players Fangio would want on his defense.
Both the Chargers and Eagles struggled defensively in 2023, and Fangio is probably the best defensive coordinator available.
Los Angeles finished the regular season 28th in total defense (362.9 yards per game) and 24th in scoring defense (23.4 points per game). Meanwhile, the Eagles finished 26th in total defense (356.1 yards per game) and 30th in scoring defense (25.2 points per game).
Of the two teams, the Chargers have a better setup with edge-rushers Joey Bosa and Tuli Tuipulotu, cornerback Asante Samuel Jr. and safety Derwin James. Linebacker Kenneth Murray Jr. is a 2024 free agent, making the position an area of need this offseason. Edge Khalil Mack, 32, is also on the roster, but his sizeable $38.5 million cap number must be addressed with an extension or release.
As for the Eagles, where do we begin? Not only were their linebackers bad this season, but the secondary was abysmal, too. Aging veteran corners James Bradberry and Darius Slay were shells of their former selves, while the trade for former Titans safety Kevin Byard didn't move the needle.
Philly's depth along the defensive line could be tested this offseason, too, with veterans Fletcher Cox and Brandon Graham set to become free agents.
With so many questions looming about the Eagles on defense, hiring Fangio would be a step in the right direction. Unfortunately for Philadelphia, it isn't the only team that could benefit from his services.
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