The Kelly Green uniform announcement isn’t the only major headline coming out of Philadelphia. Over the last five years or so, there has been plenty of noise surrounding the involvement Jeffrey Lurie has in the day-to-day running of the Philadelphia Eagles. Speaking to media members for the first time since the Nick Sirianni Press Introduction, Lurie decided to clear the air on the behind-the-scenes dealing of his franchise.
Lurie’s comments came after Jeff McLane’s article last year about how Lurie had been demanding the front office make certain draft selections like JJ Arcega-Whiteside, and Shareef Miller.
Lurie coming out and talking directly about recent reports is very telling for a couple of reasons.
First, Lurie is clearly upset that the perception of him has changed around the league. From a quiet and “in the shadows” kind of Owner to “Jerry-Jones-lite” isn’t something that the recent Oscar winner is comfortable maintaining. It’s been reported that the Eagles front office has learned from its mistakes in 2020 and has changed its way of thinking. That might also apply to Jeffrey Lurie as well.
Second, Lurie’s knack of finding unknown coaches that end up being very good HC’s is strong. He has clearly been looking for the next Andy Reid type coach, and with the firing of Doug Pederson, he knew he needed a guy who he could trust to be involved and communicative. Nick Sirianni has ticked every box. The fact the front office and coaching staff seem tied to the hip shows that the Eagles have a working plan in motion and it’s in Lurie’s best interest to stay away from the process.
The Eagles Owner rarely speaks to the media. The fact this was his first time speaking since introducing Sirianni is very telling. He trusts the work and process that is being done now, and feels it’s best for him to help only when asked.
It’s very clear that Lurie’s perception around the league matters to him. And after a few years of reported meddling, the Owner has come out to speak more candidly than he’s really ever done before.
And past employees clearly seem to notice.
Photo by Andy Lewis/Icon Sportswire
