Eagles Set to Interview Colts' Offensive Coordinator Jim Bob Cooter
In a bold move that could have significant implications for the team's future, the Philadelphia Eagles have sought permission from the Indianapolis Colts to interview their offensive coordinator, Jim Bob Cooter, for their currently vacant offensive coordinator position. This news comes from NFL Network's Mike Garafolo, stirring excitement among fans and analysts alike.
Cooter shares a history with Eagles head coach Nick Sirianni, having worked together on Romeo Crennel’s coaching staff with the Kansas City Chiefs back in 2012. Additionally, Cooter had a brief stint with the Eagles as an offensive consultant in 2021, where he left a lasting impression on Sirianni.
Sirianni has consistently praised Cooter's football acumen, stating, "He possesses a wealth of experience and is an exceptional football strategist. I hold him in high regard. While he was here, he contributed greatly by handling special projects and providing valuable consultations. It’s crucial when introducing new plays into our system—it's all too easy for a coach to throw a play into the mix just because it looked good on tape. However, understanding every nuance of that play is vital. Jim Bob excels in researching these plays while we focus on other tasks, and I’ve already seen how his insights have benefited our offense with some fresh strategies. His presence is something I’ve never experienced on a coaching staff before, and it allows us to incorporate plays we might otherwise shy away from. We’re thrilled to have him on board."
Cooter’s journey continued as he took on the role of passing game coordinator for the Jacksonville Jaguars under Doug Pederson in 2022. In 2023, he became the offensive coordinator under Shane Steichen after Steichen departed from the Eagles.
Before his time with the Colts, Cooter served as the offensive coordinator for the Detroit Lions from 2016 to 2018, working under both Jim Caldwell and Matt Patricia. He also held the position of running backs coach for the New York Jets during the 2019 and 2020 seasons while being part of Adam Gase's staff.
His coaching career began with the Colts as an offensive assistant under Caldwell from 2009 to 2011, followed by a role as an offensive quality control coach with the Denver Broncos under John Fox in 2013.
During his tenure as offensive coordinator with the Colts, the team achieved rankings of 10th, 17th, and 8th in total offense over three seasons. They placed 9th in points scored and 12th in total yards throughout that period. In the most recent season, despite a rollercoaster campaign finishing at 8-9 after a promising 8-2 start, the Colts excelled by ranking 8th in scoring and 8th in yards per play, featuring standout performances from Daniel Jones before his unfortunate injury and Jonathan Taylor, who amassed nearly 2,000 scrimmage yards and 20 touchdowns.
It's noteworthy that since Steichen is responsible for calling plays in Indianapolis, Cooter’s potential transition to the Eagles would be considered a promotion rather than a lateral move.
The Eagles are also considering other candidates to fill the offensive coordinator vacancy created by the dismissal of Kevin Patullo last week. One of those candidates includes Mike Kafka, a former Eagles draft choice who has served as Brian Daboll's offensive coordinator since 2022, along with Zac Robinson, the current offensive coordinator for the Atlanta Falcons. Reports indicate that interviews have already taken place with Kafka and Robinson.
