I'm not as sure of this as you are. A.J. has certainly had reduced production the past two seasons, but that is not necessarily due to physical decline in A.J.'s game or body. The Eagle's offense changed dramatically in 2024, because the running game was so dominant. This reduced the passing game, which Sirianni felt was less safe than the ground game in terms of damaging turn-overs. The team tried to replicate this last year, but Saquon had the normal post-humungous season dropoff and the O-line was wounded much of the season, hurting both the running game and the deep pass game.
The Eagles receivers also get more beaten up than they should, because the offense isn't designed to confuse the opposing defense or scheme receivers open. The Eagles expect their receivers to win individually, especially at the point of contact. The team's use of motion is primitive, mostly shifts to give the QB an idea of the D-tactics on a given down, with a player shifting, then being static for too long. I'm glad our new O-coordinator is likely to use motion, especially modern motion schemes, more frequently and rely more on scheming receivers open and deceiving the defense. That should result both in more passing yards and less wear-and-tear on both A.J. and Smith. That should make both appear 'younger' on the field.
Before Saquon and the change in team approach, A.J. put up two 1400+ yard seasons, better than he had ever done as a younger receiver before coming to Philly. I am optimistic that both A.J. and Smith can boost their receiving yards this season and that Saquon can also be more effective. Offensive approach and a better.healthier O-line are the keys. That's why I want to see O-line picks early in the draft. We lacked depth last year and have since lost some of our reserve strength. We've also lost Stoutland U.
I also agree we need an edge rusher (I'm not pushing for 2, unless #2 is day 3).
