The Philadelphia Eagles need Vic Fangio's expertise more than ever, and it's not just because he's coming back to the team despite considering retirement. The reality is that without Fangio at the helm of their defense, the Eagles would be facing an uphill battle in their quest for another championship.
In the final month of last season, the Eagles' offense was a mess, with key players regressing and the O-line struggling to get through games intact. But it's the defense that saved them from collapse on several occasions, thanks largely to Fangio's innovative game plans and ability to maximize his personnel's strengths.
The team's young core of defenders - including Quinyon Mitchell, Cooper DeJean, Zack Baun, Nakobe Dean, and Jihaad Campbell - grew into their roles throughout the season, but it was Fangio who held everything together. He's the mastermind behind the Eagles' shutdown performances in games like Green Bay (10-7), Detroit (16-9), and Buffalo (13-12).
Fangio's influence on the team goes beyond just the defense; he's been a steady presence throughout the season, while others were struggling to find answers. When word of Fangio contemplating retirement sent shockwaves through the fanbase, it was clear that his absence would be felt.
The Eagles' decision to check in with previous defensive coordinators Jim Schwartz and Jonathan Gannon speaks volumes about Fangio's value to the team. He may not need them as much, but they certainly need him. Without Fangio, the team would be facing an unknown quantity at the helm of their defense, which could lead to disaster.
The Eagles' offense is still in disarray, with a new coach and quarterback taking over. While Sean Mannion's appointment as assistant coach may bring some promise, it will take time for the unit to come together. In contrast, Fangio's experience and defensive acumen provide an immediate safety net that would be invaluable to the team.
It's no wonder Fangio has been mulling retirement; he's done everything he can with a 67-year-old body that may not have many more years left in it. The Eagles need him now more than ever, and his continued presence will be crucial to their chances of success next season.
In the final month of last season, the Eagles' offense was a mess, with key players regressing and the O-line struggling to get through games intact. But it's the defense that saved them from collapse on several occasions, thanks largely to Fangio's innovative game plans and ability to maximize his personnel's strengths.
The team's young core of defenders - including Quinyon Mitchell, Cooper DeJean, Zack Baun, Nakobe Dean, and Jihaad Campbell - grew into their roles throughout the season, but it was Fangio who held everything together. He's the mastermind behind the Eagles' shutdown performances in games like Green Bay (10-7), Detroit (16-9), and Buffalo (13-12).
Fangio's influence on the team goes beyond just the defense; he's been a steady presence throughout the season, while others were struggling to find answers. When word of Fangio contemplating retirement sent shockwaves through the fanbase, it was clear that his absence would be felt.
The Eagles' decision to check in with previous defensive coordinators Jim Schwartz and Jonathan Gannon speaks volumes about Fangio's value to the team. He may not need them as much, but they certainly need him. Without Fangio, the team would be facing an unknown quantity at the helm of their defense, which could lead to disaster.
The Eagles' offense is still in disarray, with a new coach and quarterback taking over. While Sean Mannion's appointment as assistant coach may bring some promise, it will take time for the unit to come together. In contrast, Fangio's experience and defensive acumen provide an immediate safety net that would be invaluable to the team.
It's no wonder Fangio has been mulling retirement; he's done everything he can with a 67-year-old body that may not have many more years left in it. The Eagles need him now more than ever, and his continued presence will be crucial to their chances of success next season.