After a disappointing finish to the previous season, the Philadelphia Eagles recognized the need for changes. Coach Nick Sirianni initiated adjustments by replacing both coordinators, hiring Kellen Moore for the offense in place of Brian Johnson and Vic Fangio to handle the defense instead of Sean Desai.

Subsequent alterations involved roster moves, with the Eagles securing standout edge rusher Bryce Huff in free agency and acquiring former Penn State and New York Giants star running back Saquon Barkley. These signings mark significant additions for a team that still retains many players from its Super Bowl appearance two seasons ago.

Despite the optimism among fans spurred by an assertive offseason led by Howie Roseman, other league executives appear less optimistic about the Eagles. According to a recent article by Mike Sando in The Athletic, one anonymous executive expressed concerns about the team’s “identity.”

“I just don’t know who they are,” remarked the anonymous executive regarding the Eagles. “I think they lost their identity and lost their confidence. Teams say they want to build from the inside out, but you lost your two staples inside players in Kelce and Cox. Not only that, but those two guys were the culture guys. You lose those guys in a year when the head coach already has his back against the wall; I don’t see it ending well.”

The significance of the retirements of both Cox and Kelce cannot be overstated. Their departure not only affects the team from a player perspective, considering both are likely to be eventually inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame, but also because, as the executive mentioned, they were influential leaders who set the team’s tone. This raises the question of who will step up to fill the void.

Recent remarks from Sirianni suggest that leadership was a factor in the decision to sign Barkley. “As much as we see him, all the highlights that we see on the tape—from my understanding and all of our homework—he’s a good leader and teammate, as well,” Sirianni stated. “To be able to add that to our locker room, not only the playmaking ability but the person, is really important.”

The Eagles’ plan to replace the retired duo’s on-field talents is a valid concern, especially considering that the team’s offensive line has been widely regarded as one of the best in the league over the past two seasons. The same can likely be said for the defensive line, although part of their success is due to the talent they’ve accumulated.

Despite the absence of Cox and Reddick, the Eagles still boast three former first-round picks on the defensive line, including Jordan Davis, Jalen Carter, and Nolan Smith. Additionally, they’ve secured the re-signing of Josh Sweat and the veteran presence of Brandon Graham for what will be his final season. Furthermore, they acquired Huff in free agency to help offset the loss of Reddick on the edge.