Experienced defensive coach Vic Fangio, who previously served as a consultant for the Eagles during their 2022 Super Bowl run, is poised to become the top choice for the Eagles’ defensive coordinator position. ESPN’s Adam Schefter and Jeremy Fowler report that a deal is anticipated for Fangio to take on this crucial role.
Fangio, who discreetly collaborated with the Eagles last year, assumed the role of Dolphins defensive coordinator this past season. According to Schefter and Fowler, he and the Dolphins mutually agreed to part ways on Wednesday.
While Fangio was a potential candidate for the Eagles’ defensive coordinator position after the 2022 season, his commitment to Mike McDaniel’s Dolphins staff as defensive coordinator coincided with Jonathan Gannon’s hiring as the Cardinals’ head coach on Feb. 14.
With an impressive 20-year career as an NFL defensive coordinator, Fangio boasts a track record of eight defenses ranked in the top 10 for points allowed and 10 in the top 10 for yards allowed. In the last 12 seasons, whether as a coordinator or head coach, he achieved 10 units ranked in the top 10 for either yards or points.
Fangio’s expertise lies in disguising coverages, minimizing big plays, and utilizing post-snap movement to perplex opposing offenses.
At 65 years old, Fangio initiated his full-time coaching career in 1984 with the USFL Philadelphia Stars under Jim Mora. He has since contributed to various teams, including the Saints, Panthers, Colts, Texans, Ravens, 49ers, Bears, and Broncos, with a brief stint at Stanford.
As the Broncos’ head coach from 2019 to 2021, Fangio led the team to a 19-30 record, not reaching the playoffs during his tenure.
Fangio emerges as the third candidate associated with the Eagles’ defensive coordinator position, following interviews with Ron Rivera and Mike Caldwell, both of whom previously coached under Andy Reid.
Whoever secures the role will be the Eagles’ fourth defensive coordinator in three years. Jonathan Gannon held the position during the Super Bowl season, followed by Sean Desai for the first 13 games of the current year, later succeeded by Matt Patricia.
Despite the Eagles’ impressive defensive performance in 2022, ranking second in the NFL overall and first in pass defense, the past year saw a decline, with the team ranking 26th in yards allowed, 30th in points allowed, and facing challenges in various defensive categories.
Fangio’s informal association with the Eagles last year proved beneficial, providing valuable insights and collaboration between the coaching staff. Head coach Nick Sirianni emphasized the positive relationship and football acumen Fangio brings to the team.
