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Eagles Demote Starter From Key Role in Week 17 After Struggles

Punter Brandon Mann lost his job as Philadelphia's kickoff man during a dominant victory.

By Joe Summers

Nov 14, 2024; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Philadelphia Eagles head coach Nick Sirianni reacts to a play in the third quarter of a game against the Washington Commanders at Lincoln Financial Field. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-Imagn Images
Nov 14, 2024; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Philadelphia Eagles head coach Nick Sirianni reacts to a play in the third quarter of a game against the Washington Commanders at Lincoln Financial Field. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-Imagn Images / Bill Streicher-Imagn Images
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The Eagles demolished the Cowboys 41-7 in a dominant performance in Week 17, putting up one of the most impressive offensive efforts of the campaign despite Jalen Hurts' injury.

Even still, Philadelphia is looking toward the postseason and made a key decision that signals a transition into the playoffs. Punter Braden Mann had handled kickoffs in recent weeks, though head coach Nick Sirianni elected to put Jake Elliot in against Dallas.

Typically, kickers handle kickoffs, so this isn't necesarily a stunning decision. That said, it still represents a transition for a team with Super Bowl aspirations.

Eagles Demote P Brandon Mann on Kickoffs in Week 17 Against Cowboys

This choice is a signal of faith in Elliot's favor. The veteran has made only 77.4% of his field goals this year, ranking 32nd in the NFL. That's obviously unacceptable, though Sirianni seemingly saw something in practice that increased his faith in the 29-year-old Eagle.

On its face, this decision doesn't mean much. Whether Mann or Elliot handles kickoffs isn't particularly important, but Elliot's issues in 2024 make it a larger topic of debate.

Mann is a capable punter, though the choice to have him handle kickoffs was always curious. Perhaps Sirianni knew that Elliot had an injury he was dealing with. Alternatively, he might not have had faith in his ability to pin opponents deep.

No matter the reason, Sirianni switched back to Elliot with massive success. Philadelphia looks like one of the NFL's best teams and is tied for the fourth-best odds (+700) to win the Super Bowl at FanDuel Sportsbook. Saquon Barkley hit the 2,000-yard threshold that puts him in rarified air, but the most important storyline remains centered around Jalen Hurts' concussion.

If the Eagles have a healthy Hurts, they can hoist a Lombardi. If they don't, it won't matter who handles kickoffs despite a spectacular win over the Cowboys.

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