Philadelphia Eagles rumors: The 2020 NFL season has been full of disappointment for the Philadelphia Eagles. With quarterback Carson Wentz and head coach Doug Pederson both not coming close to the standards they set in previous years, significant changes could be looming in Philadelphia.
Just a few years removed from Wentz playing at an MVP-caliber level and Pederson winning a Super Bowl, things have gone off the rails for the Eagles. As a result, with the team seemingly unable to compete in a woeful NFC East, team owner Jeffrey Lurie could make some big changes this offseason.
Let’s dive into the latest Philadelphia Eagles rumors, with the 2020 season drawing to a close and a pivotal 2021 offseason ahead for this franchise.
Related: If you’re a fan of the Eagles, check out #FlyEaglesFly rumors, rankings, and news here.
Philadelphia Eagles rumors: Will Carson Wentz return in 2021?
It’s been a year to forget for Carson Wentz. After the Eagles finally moved on from Nick Foles, the backup quarterback who led this team to a Super Bowl, the 27-year-old would finally no longer have to look over his shoulders. That all changed in the 2020 NFL Draft, when Philadelphia selected Jalen Hurts with its second-round pick.
Wentz came into the season as the unquestioned starter, with the organization hoping he would thrive in a healthy offense. In a matter of months, the Eagles lost top offensive linemen Andre Dillard suffered a season-ending biceps injury and Brandon Brooks tore his Achilles before Week 1.
Almost instantly, it was evident Wentz wasn’t the same quarterback under pressure. As the hits racked up, the veteran quarterback kept seeing ghosts and his decision-making rapidly worsened. After 12 games, with a league-worst 15 interceptions and 50 sacks, Doug Pederson finally made a change at quarterback.
Related: NFL world reacts to Jalen Hurts being named starter
If Hurts performs well, he is expected to remain the starting quarterback for the rest of the season. As a result, it’s led many to wonder if Carson Wentz could be in his final months with the team.
According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, the Eagles still intend to keep Wentz in 2021 and believe he is a major part of their team’s long-term plans.
“None of this changes the belief that people have in Carson,” a team source told ESPN.
The organization is seemingly confident that the 2020 season is a bit of a fluke. Both as a player and person, Philadelphia believes Wentz has the ability to return to his form. All of this, despite the fact he has been one of the NFL’s most turnover-prone and inaccurate quarterbacks this season.
Indianapolis Colts rumors: Carson Wentz an option in 2021
Of course, the Eagles must all consider the financial ramifications of keeping Wentz. If he remains on the roster by the third day of the 2021 league year, his $22 million base salary for the 2022 season is guaranteed and the team owes him a $10 million roster bonus.
The possibility still exists for Wentz to be traded. His resume will have enough for NFL teams in desperate need of a quarterback to explore trading for him. As of now, though, the Eagles seem committed to Wentz.
NFL coaching candidates: Top options to become head coaches in 2021
Philadelphia Eagles rumors: Will Doug Pederson return as head coach?
While the Eagles are sticking by Wentz for now, there are no guarantees for Doug Pederson. Just three years removed from his team winning Super Bowl LII, stunning the New England Patriots, the 52-year-old’s tenure in Philadelphia isn’t certain.
According to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, Pederson is firmly on the hot seat this season. In fact, his job security might be tied to how Hurts performs.
Philadelphia Eagles rumors: Doug Pederson ‘reached his limit’ with team
It’s a bit of a fitting scenario, given how long Pederson stuck by Wentz this season. If a change had been made earlier, there’s an argument that the Eagles are still competing for the NFC East.
Sitting at 3-8-1, with their playoff hopes dwindling, Pederson will need Hurts to shine against the New Orleans Saints, Arizona Cardinals, Dallas Cowboys and Washington Football Team.
NFL coaches fired: Latest buzz on coaching hot seat
Facing three playoff-caliber opponents, there’s a real chance the Eagles finish the year with double-digit losses. Pederson is clearly feeling the pressure to save his job. Now, he can only hope the rookie quarterback comes through.