The Philadelphia Eagles are desperate for some stability at the quarterback position, though it might start with a change in play-calling.
Carson Wentz's struggles have reportedly prompted head coach Doug Pederson to consider giving up play-calling duties, per Ian Rapoport of NFL Network.
Pederson said he will still call the plays, but noted he has relinquished some of the “duties” as the Eagles look for answers in the passing game.
From NFL Now: #Eagles coach Doug Pederson is trying everything to get Carson Wentz going, even giving up parts of play-calling. pic.twitter.com/G7FSbAr6Io
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) December 4, 2020
Doug Pederson confirms he's given up some play-calling duties https://t.co/nQvwQ46PZh
— ProFootballTalk (@ProFootballTalk) December 4, 2020
Perhaps Wentz has been weighed down psychologically.
Jeremy Fowler of ESPN reported earlier this week the former No. 2 overall pick was a bit surprised the Eagles decided to select Jalen Hurts in the second round of the 2020 NFL Draft.
An anonymous source told Fowler Philly's quarterback felt his efforts were not being recognized after practically dragging the Eagles to the playoffs in 2019. The report also noted Wentz was “pressed” to get off to a good start, resulting in a series of poor performances that have started to snowball.
However, it is worth wondering whether Pederson stepping back can have a positive impact in getting Wentz back on track.
It is important to remember Wentz's apparent drop-off has somewhat coincided with the departure of former quarterbacks coach Frank Reich, who left Philly to become head coach of the Indianapolis Colts ahead of the 2018 season. Perhaps the 27-year-old is lacking the structure he once had in the QB room.
Regardless, the Eagles need Wentz to play better if they hope to reach the playoffs. Wentz is completing just over 58 percent of his passes and has a league-high 15 interceptions. He has also been sacked a league-high 46 times, though some of those have come at his own hand.
Philly (3-7-1) will hope its quarterback comes to play against Aaron Rodgers and a high-powered Green Bay Packers team this weekend.
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