Add two names to Eagles ever-growing list of possible defensive coordinator options

And, just like that. January is nearing its curtain call. It seems like it was just yesterday that we kissed loved ones to bring in the new year. Time flies, huh? Tis the season to begin discussing Super Bowl party plans, Valentine's Day, and the Philadelphia Eagles offseason.

Let's rap about that last one, shall we?

Perhaps you've heard. Philly's season ended much earlier than any of us would have hoped. Nick Sirianni's approval rating has plummeted, but it appears that he'll return for a fourth NFL season as the Eagles head coach with at least two new coordinators (even though only one has been fired since we began having these discussions).

The Eagles have expressed interest in two more candidates as they look to fill their vacant defensive coordinator position.

It hasn't been the happiest of new years for Eagles fans. In just four months, confidence has been replaced with concern. A roster we viewed as being Super Bowl-ready appears to be in shambles. Donovan McNabb believes Howie Roseman should get the ax. Birds fans want everyone from Sirianni to the assistants fired, and according to NFL Network's Tom Pelissero, senior defensive assistant Matt Patricia will explore other coaching options.

This past weekend, Philly parted ways with Sean Desai less than one year after hiring him for their then-vacant defensive coordinator position. One day later, we learned Brian Johnson will no longer be in the running for the Carolina Panthers head-coaching vacancy.

Here's something you'll want to keep tabs on. Two names need to be added to Philly's list of possible replacements for Desai.

Diana Russini reports the Birds have reached out to former Atlanta Falcons DC Ryan Nielsen and former New York Giants DC Wink Martindale. Both are intriguing targets.

Nielsen likes to stop the opposing team's rushing attack out of a light box. Under his watch, the Falcons lept from 32nd in pressure rate in 2022 to an 11th-placed finish under Nielsen in 2023.

Wink is someone Birds fans know well. He's been a part of a rival's coaching staff since 2022. He has been an NFL assistant since 2004.

Wink spent most of his time on John Harbaugh's staff with the Baltimore Ravens. He loves to bring the blitz which, alone will bring smiles to the faces of Eagles fans. Somewhere, Buddy Ryan and Jim Johnson are smiling.

Update

Remove Ryan Nielsen's name from the discussion. He is expected to join the Jacksonville Jaguars as their new defensive coordinator per ESPN's Adam Schefter.

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