The Philadelphia Eagles have fired defensive line coach Jim Washburn after their 38-33 loss to the Dallas Cowboys Sunday night.
According to the team, Washburn was “relieved of his duties” following the team’s eighth straight loss. The Eagles defensive line gave up 123 rushing yards compared to the Cowboys 183 rushing yards, which does not seem to be the reason behind his firing.
“Jim is a fine football coach and we appreciate the efforts he gave to this team over the past two years,” coach Andy Reid. “However, I determined that it was in the team’s best interest that we move in a different direction in terms of trying to maximize the production of that position group. We look forward to having Tommy Brasher back on board to work with the defensive line.”
Brasher was the Eagles defensive line coach in 1985 and from 1999 through 2005.
One the determining factors that played into Washburn’s firing was that he had become a “cancer” around the team, according to the Philadelphia Inquirer. His attitude took a turn for the worse when defensive end Jason Babin was released last week and picked up off of waivers by the Jacksonville Jaguars.
Washburn was hired by Reid in Jan. 2011 to improve his pass rush defense. He brought his wide nine scheme to the Eagles, which aims to sack the quarterback at the expense of a run defense. The Eagles only managed to sack Tony Romo Sunday night one time for an 11-yard loss.
The Eagles have 46 sacks on the season, but that was not enough for Reid nor the Eagles front office.
Washburn built a reputation with the team for being outspoken about his thoughts. Last November, he was involved in an argument with offensive coordinator Marty Mornhinweg on the sideline during a game.
He also expressed his frustrations to players about former defensive coordinator Juan Castillo, who was fired earlier in the season by Reid. Washburn has also complained about new defensive coordinator Todd Bowles, according to the Philadelphia Inquirer.
With a few more weeks left to go in the season, Reid has potentially seen his last days as the Eagles head coach and could possibly receive his pink slip soon.
