Possible Eagles replacements for defensive coordinator Jonathan Gannon

The Eagles could save some time by promoting Dennard Wilson.

At the risk of sounding disrespectful to some of the other people in the same position, the argument could have been made that Dennard Wilson (pictured above with the New York Jets) was a better candidate for a defensive coordinator job than some of the people that were hired to perform the job on their respective teams.

Wilson’s NFL resume isn’t as extensive as some other potential Eagles DCs, but it’s impressive. He served as a Pro Scout for the Chicago Bears from 2008-2011 before becoming the Saint Louis Rams’ defensive quality control coach where he served from 2012 to 2014.

In 2015, he was promoted to the Rams’ defensive backs chair and stayed there during the team’s transition to L.A. in 2016. In 2017, he was acquired by the New York Jets to fill the same role before having the title of passing game coordinator added in 2019.

Following a coaching change by Gang Green, Wilson made his way to the Eagles in 2021. Under his watch, Avonte Maddox and Darius Slay had amazing seasons. Philly’s rotation of their safeties (Rodney McLeod, Marcus Epps, and Anthony Harris) paid huge dividends as well.

The Eagles could make an outside hire, but if they’re looking to make an internal promotion, Wilson might be the guy who’s most prepared for a promotion. He already has the respect of his players. Slay has been a hugely vocal supporter of his all season.