According to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, the Eagles have found their replacement for QB Coach Press Taylor. That man is Brian Johnson…not to be confused with the AC/DC singer.
Johnson’s move may appear like ‘a shot in the dark’, but there’s a lot to like here. He’s 33-years-old and one of the youngest coaches on the block, adding to the Eagles’ refreshed look. Most notably, Johnson coordinated a Florida offense quarterbacked by Kyle Trask, who threw for 4,283 yards, 43 touchdowns and 8 picks in 2020 in a season that left many ‘Thunderstruck’.
He spent two years with the Gators as a QB coach after a stint with Houston in the same role with some OC responsibilities. Between 2014-16, he coached the Mississippi State QB’s. This includes Dak Prescott, who threw for 3,449 yards and 27 touchdowns under his tutelage. Dak became a ‘rock ‘n’ roll train’ en-route to being selected by the Cowboys and becoming a divisional rival for Johnson’s future employer.
Johnson worked under Dan Mullen at both Mississippi State and Florida. Mullen comes from the Urban Meyer tree of coaching, which in itself brings a lot of intrigue.
Interestingly, Johnson recruited Jalen Hurts out of High School. That will be something to watch as the Eagles continue to groom their second-round pick. Last year was a ‘touch too much’ from the Eagles’ coaching staff, but hiring a coach who looks primed to help both QB’s thrive is a strong move.
Johnson’s playing career as a QB is interesting. He led the Utes to an undefeated season and #2 ranking in 2008 and was the Sugar Bowl MVP one year later. He was also the cover athlete on NCAA Football 10, which is pretty cool.
He’s been sought after by college programs after the rise of Trask but has decided to take a bigger leap into NFL waters. On paper, this hire could be huge. Johnson has not only been a top-tier college QB, but has coached some bigger names to success as a coach.
He’ll have his work cut out for him in rebuilding Carson Wentz, but it’s a long way to the top if you wanna rock and roll.
Photo by Rich Graessle/Icon Sportswire
