Eagles’ Offense Stalls: Can They Fix Run Game Woes?

Eagles’ Offense Stalls: Can They Fix Run Game Woes?

Winning is tough, especially when you’re aiming to repeat as champions. For the Philadelphia Eagles, the 2025 season ended in disappointment, falling short of their goals. A key reason for their struggles was a significant decline in their once-dominant run game. Just one year after finishing top five in yards per rush, rushing first downs, and touchdowns in 2024, the Eagles fell well outside the top 10 in all three categories in 2025. This drop-off has led to widespread discussion about what’s wrong with the Eagles’ offense.

Barkley’s Struggles Mirror Team’s Decline

The numbers clearly show a problem, and it’s not just about anonymous reports. Saquon Barkley, who had a huge year in 2024, saw his production plummet in 2025. “We didn’t make enough plays,” was the sentiment after their season-ending loss. Barkley went from rushing for over 2,000 yards and 13 touchdowns in 2024 to just over 1,000 yards and seven touchdowns in 2025. He also had about 75 fewer carries last year.

“Some of it is just opportunity,” explained one analyst. “He had about 75 fewer carries last year than the year prior.” The offensive line, which was once a strong suit, is also getting older and hasn’t performed as well. This decline directly impacted Barkley’s ability to break big runs, a hallmark of the Eagles’ offense in previous years. His struggles are directly tied to the team’s overall offensive issues.

Hurts’ Success Tied to the Run Game

Quarterback Jalen Hurts’ success is closely linked to the effectiveness of the run game. While one analyst disputes the idea that Hurts isn’t coachable, pointing to his career improvement, it’s clear he has preferences. He reportedly doesn’t like throwing over the middle and prefers facing single-high coverage, where his best throw is a deep ball to the outside. This plays into the idea that when defenses aren’t forced to respect the run, they can play more safeties deep, limiting those one-on-one opportunities for Hurts.

“The numbers you’ve put out illustrate this, you’re not getting as much of that single high coverage when defenses aren’t bringing extra safety into the box to stop the run,” noted one commentator. The Eagles need to find ways to diversify their rushing attack and improve their offensive line to help Hurts be his best self. This means changes schematically and potentially adding new personnel through the draft.

Personnel and Scheme Changes Needed

Fixing the run game requires a multi-faceted approach. The new offensive coordinator, Shawn Mann, needs to find ways to diversify the rushing attack. However, it’s also about the players on the field. General Manager Howie Roseman and the front office need to address the offensive line in the upcoming draft. With veteran tackle Lane Johnson aging, they might look to add depth or a future replacement.

Adding a blocking tight end was a good move, but the focus on improving the offensive line needs to continue. The pressure on the Eagles’ coaching staff and players is immense, given the team’s consistently high standards. As one analyst put it, “The Eagles have very high standards because they always have one of the best rosters in football. And so, I don’t think it’s just Jaylen Hurts under pressure every year.” This scrutiny is part of playing for a team that expects to win.

Cowboys Target Edge Rushers in Draft

Meanwhile, the Dallas Cowboys are looking to bolster their defense in the upcoming NFL Draft. With two first-round picks, at number 12 and number 20, analysts predict they will use both on edge rushers. The projected picks are Miami’s Ruben Bane Jr. at 12 and Missouri’s Zion Young at 20. This would be the first time since 2005 that the Cowboys have drafted two defensive players in the first round.

“I love the plan here. The best teams throw resources at a problem,” said one analyst. The Cowboys traded away a key pass rusher and need to add pressure to their defensive front. Bane Jr. is seen as an instant impact player with a high motor, known for his performance in big games. Young is praised for his ruggedness and ability to stop the run from day one. Adding these two could significantly strengthen their pass rush and overall defense.

A Touching Moment for World Autism Awareness Day

In a heartwarming segment, the show highlighted a special moment for World Autism Awareness Day. Dan Orlovsky’s son, Madden, who created artwork for the studio, joined the show. Devonta Smith sent Madden a personalized Eagles swag bag, and the moment clearly touched the hosts and viewers alike. “I still can’t get over how special it was to get to witness this,” said one host, expressing gratitude for the positive reception Madden received.

The segment celebrated Madden and his art, reminding everyone of the importance of acceptance and inclusion. It served as a powerful reminder of the human element behind the game and the positive impact such moments can have.

Source: How can the Eagles fix their offense? + Cowboys drafting 2 edge rushers in Round 1? | NFL Live (YouTube)