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Tim McManus
PHILADELPHIA — The Eagles have fired offensive coordinator Kevin Patullo, the team announced Tuesday.
«I have decided to make a change at offensive coordinator,» coach Nick Sirianni wrote in a statement. «I met with Kevin today to discuss the difficult decision, as he is a great coach who has my utmost respect. He has been integral to this team’s success over the last five years, not only to the on-field product but behind the scenes as a valued leader for our players and organization. I have no doubt he will continue to have a successful coaching career.
«Ultimately, when we fall short of our goals that responsibility lies on my shoulders.»
Patullo, 44, was promoted from pass game coordinator and associate head coach this offseason to replace Kellen Moore, now the head coach of the New Orleans Saints.
Saquon Barkley, A.J. Brown, DeVonta Smith and Jalen Hurts, but the operation lacked efficiency for much of the season, including in Sunday’s 23-19 playoff loss to the San Francisco 49ers.
Injuries along the offensive front — the Eagles were without All-Pro right tackle Lane Johnson (Lisfranc) for seven games, while guard Landon Dickerson and center Cam Jurgens never appeared at full health — was a major factor, as was execution, a number of players pointed out.
«I feel like [Patullo] did a great job, man,» Smith said. «A lot of the stuff is on us as players.
«It works hand-in-hand. We have to all pick each other up. We have to pick him up, he has to pick us up. I feel like he called it great the whole year. Offensively, we just didn’t execute well.»
