Successful NFL defenses rely on talented playmakers and versatility across the board, something Jonathan Gannon has implemented during his two seasons with the Eagles.
After a 2021 season that saw Philadelphia gashed via a passive scheme and a lack of talent, GM Howie Roseman made severe upgrades to the roster, adding Haason Reddick, Kyzir White, Jordan Davis, Nakobe Dean, Linval Joseph, Ndamukong Suh, Reed Blankenship, and James Bradberry among others.
Roseman then acquired C.J. Gardner-Johnson via trade from the Saints, and the perfect ‘GUMBO’ recipe was developed, allowing Gannon to cook this season with a top-five defense in several key categories.
Fans and media pundits criticize Gannon for his perceived lack of aggression, but there’s no denying that Philadelphia’s defensive coordinator has pushed all of the right buttons this season.
With an NFC Championship matchup against the 49ers looming, Fran Duffy looked at the versatility Gannon’s scheme employs, and the confusion it caused for the Giants and quarterback Daniel Jones.
If Gannon can get into a similar rhythm against the Niners, the Eagles will be headed to the Super Bowl with a recipe that could stifle Patrick Mahomes or Joe Burrow as well.