The Philadelphia Eagles need help on defense. Vic Fangio has a history of helping defenses improve.
The Eagles are hoping he has more tricks up his sleeve, as they officially announced Saturday that Fangio is their new defensive coordinator. He’d been reportedly headed to Philadelphia for a couple of days.
Fangio, 65, served as the Miami Dolphins defensive coordinator last season, before parting ways with the team earlier this week.
Now, he will take over a defense that ranked 30th in points allowed this season. The Eagles lost six of their last seven games after a 10-1 start.
“Vic’s reputation obviously speaks for itself,” Eagles head coach Nick Sirianni said in a statement. “He’s a brilliant defensive mind who has coached at a very high level in this league for many years. In my time spent with Vic, I’ve seen firsthand what makes him such a great coach – tremendous knowledge of the game, passion, and work ethic. I’m excited for our coaches and players to be able to learn from him and see it for themselves.”
Fangio was not a good fit in Miami last season, but he has a long track record of success as a DC, filling that post previously with Carolina, Indianapolis, Houston, San Francisco and Chicago. In seven of his past nine years as DC, his teams finished in the top 10 in fewest yards allowed.
He also served a three-year stint as head coach of the Denver Broncos from 2019-2021.
Fans generally like the Eagles’ decision although there were some doubters.
[Philadelphia Eagles; Photo Credit: Philadelphia Eagles]
About Arthur Weinstein
Arthur spends his free time traveling around the U.S. to sporting events, state and national parks, and in search of great restaurants off the beaten path.