Following an unimpressive loss to the Cardinals, the Eagles are now turning their attention to the Giants. Head coach Nick Sirianni addressed the media on Monday, discussing the team’s defensive struggles, Haason Reddick’s role, A.J. Brown’s frustration, and provided injury updates despite it being early in the week.

Here are the key points from the head coach’s press conference:

On the Eagles defense

Sirianni expressed his continued faith in defensive coordinator Matt Patricia, confirming that there won’t be any changes in playcalling responsibilities. He acknowledged the recent change from Sean Desai to Patricia and admitted that while it initially showed promise, the performance against the Cardinals fell short of their standards. Despite the outcome, Sirianni stood by his decision to entrust the defense to Patricia, emphasizing that it was made in the team’s best interest.

Addressing their defensive struggles against the Cardinals, particularly in stopping the run, Sirianni attributed it to Arizona’s effective scheming and the Eagles’ inability to coach and execute well enough. He highlighted the Cardinals’ successful efforts in running for over 200 yards and took responsibility for the flaws in their coaching approach.

On A.J. Brown’s frustration

Touching on A.J. Brown’s frustration, Sirianni acknowledged the wide receiver’s desire to impact the game and the challenges of finding joy amidst the team’s current struggles. He praised Brown’s character and contributions as a teammate and player, expressing empathy for the collective frustration within the team.

Sirianni lauded Brown’s professionalism and reiterated his respect for the player’s dedication and talent, noting the team’s shared frustration and emphasizing that everyone is working through the challenges together.

Injury updates

• Regarding Darius Slay’s injury, Sirianni indicated that his status would be evaluated later in the week and expressed hope for his swift recovery. He commended Slay’s efforts in working towards a return to action and provided reassurance by highlighting their decision not to place him on Injured Reserve.
• Sirianni refrained from providing specific details about Avonte Maddox’s injury, indicating that more information would be forthcoming as the week progresses.

On how things have affected him personally

Sirianni acknowledged the personal and emotional toll of the team’s struggles, emphasizing the relentless determination of both players and coaches in seeking solutions and improvements. Despite the challenges, he affirmed his commitment to addressing the team’s issues and finding ways to overcome the ongoing difficulties.

Emphasizing the need to persevere and remain resilient in the face of adversity, Sirianni expressed his unwavering resolve to navigate the team through its current predicament.

On being unable to sustain leads

Reflecting on their inability to hold onto substantial leads in games this season, Sirianni cited the need for greater offensive aggression in critical game situations. Despite expressing confidence in the play calls, he acknowledged the scrutiny on their approach and admitted his responsibility for the team’s performance in such scenarios.

Sirianni recognized the team’s shortcomings in key game moments and accepted accountability for their shortcomings, vowing to address and rectify the issues moving forward.

On Haason Reddick dropping into coverage

In response to questions about Haason Reddick’s role, Sirianni emphasized the importance of unpredictability in defensive schemes and the need to avoid becoming too one-dimensional. He highlighted the strategic reasons behind Reddick’s involvement in coverage, explaining the effort to keep opponents guessing and prevent predictability in the defense’s approach.

Other notables

• Sharing his perspective on the team’s expectations and challenges this season, Sirianni acknowledged the weight of their aspirations and the need to focus on daily progress rather than past or future outcomes. He emphasized the importance of staying grounded and committed to continuous improvement.
• Regarding the possibility of resting starters in the final week of the season, Sirianni reaffirmed the team’s intent to pursue victory and address their ongoing struggles. He acknowledged the consideration of all options but stressed their determination to emerge from their rut and compete to their best ability.