PHILADELPHIA — The Philadelphia Eagles are gearing up for a fresh start under new offensive coordinator Sean Mannion, who is optimistic about quarterback Jalen Hurts as they prepare for the 2026 season. This comes after a disappointing 2025 campaign, where the Eagles struggled to recapture their Super Bowl glory.
Why it matters: The Eagles' success this season hinges on the relationship between Mannion and Hurts. A strong connection could revitalize Hurts' performance, which is key to the team's playoff aspirations.
Hurts is entering his seventh NFL season and will work with his seventh different offensive coordinator.
Mannion was hired in January 2026, following a year of offensive struggles that saw the Eagles finish 24th in yards per game and 19th in points per game.
The Eagles are looking to bounce back after a tumultuous 2025 season, marked by dysfunction and a deteriorating relationship between Hurts and star receiver A.J. Brown.
Driving the news: Mannion's first media session in May 2026 revealed his enthusiasm for working with Hurts. He emphasized the importance of building a personal rapport before examining football strategy.
Mannion stated, "I think it starts really just connecting with him on a personal level, get to know him, get to know what his interests are, what makes him tick."
He praised Hurts for his accuracy, athleticism, and eagerness to learn, highlighting how Hurts is always looking for ways to improve.
"Jalen's been awesome. I really think he can do anything we ask of him," Mannion said.
State of play: The Eagles are in the midst of their offseason program, with organized team activities set to begin soon. Mannion’s approach is expected to bring a fresh perspective to the Eagles’ offense.
Mannion aims to improve Saquon Barkley's production, hoping to bring him closer to his 2,000-yard performance in 2024 rather than the 1,140 yards he managed in 2025.
The new offensive scheme will incorporate more under-center plays and play-action, which are different from previous strategies used under head coach Nick Sirianni.
Mannion's experience coaching under the Sean McVay/Kyle Shanahan system is expected to influence his play-calling style.
The big picture: Mannion’s arrival as offensive coordinator comes at a time when the Eagles need to revamp their offense significantly.
The Eagles have made several roster moves, including acquiring wide receiver Makai Lemon in the draft and trading for Dontayvion Wicks, indicating a shift in their offensive strategy.
With A.J. Brown expected to be traded, Mannion's ability to adapt the offense will be tested as he works with new receivers.
"It's a really exciting group. It's really fun group," Mannion said about the receiver corps, emphasizing the importance of teamwork.
What they're saying: Mannion's early impressions of Hurts and the offense have been overwhelmingly positive, signaling a potential turnaround for the Eagles.
"He has a great process in the meetings. He always asks really, really thought-provoking questions," Mannion noted, underscoring Hurts' commitment to improvement.
Hurts has led the Eagles to the playoffs in each of his five full seasons as a starter, winning a Super Bowl and earning MVP honors.
"Those are the guys that are really fun to work with," Mannion said, referring to Hurts' work ethic and desire to learn.
By the numbers: The Eagles' offensive struggles last season were stark, and Mannion's task is to reverse these trends.
In 2025, the Eagles finished 24th in yards per game and 19th in points per game, a far cry from their Super Bowl-winning form.
Hurts averaged just 695 rushing yards over his first four seasons but saw a drop to 421 yards last year, indicating a need for a more balanced offensive approach.
Mannion's scheme is expected to utilize Hurts' running ability more effectively, as it is a key asset for the quarterback.
What's next: The Eagles will continue to develop their offensive strategy as they prepare for training camp and the regular season.
Mannion will focus on implementing his scheme during upcoming OTAs, where he will work closely with Hurts and the rest of the offense.
Fans will follow closely closely to see how Mannion adapts the playbook to maximize the talents of Hurts and the newly acquired players.
The Eagles' first test will come against the Washington Commanders in Week 1, where Mannion's new offense will face its first real challenge.