Philadelphia Eagles Adjust Offseason Training Regimen Under New Coordinator's Influence
ICARO Media Group
In an effort to find a balance between player health and performance, the Philadelphia Eagles are making adjustments to their offseason training regimen. The shift comes with input from their new defensive coordinator, Vic Fangio, who brings an old-school approach to the table.
Coach Nick Sirianni acknowledged that the Eagles have been on the lower end of the spectrum when it comes to time spent on the field during training camp. However, with Fangio's influence, the team is looking to extend their practice hours and strike a middle ground with other teams in the league.
The Eagles have prioritized minimizing injuries and adhering to strict limits set by the collective bargaining agreement. Their high-tempo practices have typically lasted around an hour or less, including more days off and practices without full pads than required.
This approach proved successful in the 2022 season as the Eagles started off with an 8-0 record and made an appearance in Super Bowl LVII. All 22 of their original starters played in that game. In 2023, the team continued to refine their strategy, reducing back-to-back practices and increasing walkthroughs during training camp, resulting in a 5-0 start and 10 wins in their first 11 games.
However, the Eagles faced some challenges, as they narrowly avoided a loss in their season opener against the New England Patriots, who finished with a 4-13 record. Sirianni expressed regret in not playing key starters during the preseason and vowed to reevaluate their preseason approach next year.
The decision to adjust their offseason training became more apparent after the organization fired offensive coordinator Brian Johnson and defensive coordinator Sean Desai following a disappointing 1-6 collapse. Kellen Moore and Vic Fangio were brought in to replace them, bringing new schemes that required additional preparation.
Fangio, in his first news conference as defensive coordinator, made it clear that he advocated for more offseason practices. He emphasized that players haven't changed much over the years, but the expectations placed on them have evolved. Fangio called for a balance between preserving energy and pushing players to maximize their potential.
While he does not advocate for a return to full-pad two-a-days, Fangio's preferences lean towards a more traditional approach. Coach Sirianni, on the other hand, emphasizes the need to adapt and evolve without overcorrecting.
The Eagles are now inching closer to finding the sweet spot between player health and performance. With the influence of Vic Fangio, they are adjusting their offseason training regimen to strike a balance that will benefit the team in the upcoming season.