In a fiery segment that has the NFL world buzzing, Philadelphia Eagles head coach Nick Sirianni didn’t hold back after officially signing a contract extension with the team. Appearing on The Pat McAfee Show, Sirianni used the moment to fire back at critics and commentators—most notably former NFL quarterback and current ESPN analyst Dan Orlovsky—who doubted his leadership and long-term fit with the Eagles.
Sirianni, who helped lead the Eagles to a Super Bowl appearance in the 2022 season and consistently kept them among the NFC’s top teams, signed a multi-year extension this week, solidifying his future in Philadelphia. The extension follows months of speculation that he was on the hot seat after a rocky finish to the 2023 season, which saw the Eagles stumble down the stretch and exit early in the playoffs.
But with a new deal in hand and renewed confidence from ownership, Sirianni came out swinging.
“I hear everything,” Sirianni said during his interview with McAfee. “People act like we don’t see the media, like we’re in a bubble. I heard Dan Orlovsky, I heard all the talk. Everyone saying the locker room was lost, that I couldn’t lead, that we needed a new voice. Well guess what? I’m still here.”
Sirianni’s comments seemed squarely aimed at Orlovsky, who has been critical of the Eagles’ coaching throughout the past season. On several ESPN segments, Orlovsky openly questioned Sirianni’s play-calling, offensive identity, and leadership ability, especially during the team’s late-season collapse.
“Dan’s a smart guy, no doubt,” Sirianni said with a smirk. “But there’s a difference between sitting in a studio and living this day in and day out with the players, the staff, the grind. The people in this building believe in what we’re doing, and that’s what matters.”
Pat McAfee, never one to let a moment like that slide, jumped in with his trademark enthusiasm. “OH! Coach Sirianni coming with the receipts!” McAfee exclaimed, laughing. “You love to see a coach not afraid to stand up for himself. You earned that extension, Coach.”
Sirianni also addressed the criticisms that followed the Eagles’ second-half collapse last season. “Look, we didn’t finish the way we wanted. That’s on me. But if you think one bad stretch defines who I am or what this team is capable of, you haven’t been paying attention.”
The Eagles’ front office clearly agrees. General manager Howie Roseman called Sirianni “a pillar of the franchise” and praised his ability to connect with players and adapt strategically. According to reports, the extension keeps Sirianni in Philadelphia through at least the 2028 season.
Fans in Philly—known for their passion and high expectations—have reacted with mixed emotions. Some are thrilled with the continuity, while others remain skeptical after a disappointing 2023 finish. Still, many praised Sirianni’s willingness to face criticism head-on.
Whether this marks a new chapter for Sirianni or just more fuel for the fire remains to be seen. One thing is clear: Coach Sirianni has heard the noise, and he’s using it as motivation.
And if his appearance on The Pat McAfee Show was any indication, he’s not afraid to name names and call out the doubters—especially when he’s got the backing of a brand-new contract.
