Philadelphia Eagles Jeffrey Lurie approval poll: July 2017

Running approval polls for the likes of Doug Pederson and Howie Roseman at this time of year wouldn’t make much sense. There’s not a lot to judge them on right now; this is the NFL’s quietest time of year.

It’s always fair to think about the big picture of the franchise, however. Today we’re going to poll the approval of Philadelphia Eagles CEO and Chairman Jeffrey Lurie.

Last time we ran a Lurie approval poll was two days after the conclusion of the 2016 season. Lurie earned a 42% approval rating following the team’s second straight year with a 7-9 record.

I’d imagine Lurie’s rating will finish higher this time. There’s optimism around the Eagles heading into Year 2 of the Carson Wentz era. The Eagles did a nice job of making some upgrades to their roster this offseason. The Alshon Jeffery signing is obviously the most notable one.

Normally I’d praise Lurie for staying out of the way and trusting his football people to make football decisions. But it was reported earlier this offseason he’s taking a more active role with the team.

Lurie’s increased influence was apparent in the Eagles’ decision to give a contract extension to the 35-year-old Jason Peters. After skipping all of Philadelphia’s voluntary practices, Peters showed up to Eagles minicamp and talked about his desire for a new deal. Less than a day later, he got exactly what he wanted.

Peters had an interesting answer when he was asked about his relationship with Lurie.

We’re best friends. We talk all the time. He texts me before every game. That’s my guy. He brought me here and he stayed loyal to me.

Personally, I was in favor of the Peters extension. But one has to wonder what the process was like here. Did Lurie’s friendship with a player supersede conventional wisdom of not giving more money to older players?

I realize that the Peters extension is hardly franchise-defining. It’s only one move. But you have to wonder how much Lurie is involved in other personnel decisions. Lurie’s increased involvement could be a red flag. Having a meddling owner typically isn’t the best recipe for success.

Lurie has owned the Eagles for over 23 years now. The franchise has obviously had some successful runs during that time, but it’s been nearly 10 years since Philadelphia has won a playoff game. It’s been four years since they even made the post-season. The team’s lack of success could explain why the 65-year-old Lurie feels pressure to get involved and right the ship. But will his involvement lead to success?

For now, I remain unsure about Lurie. A successful 2017 season could be a step in the right direction. Or it could be a false positive masking a flawed process. We’ll see.

Are you confident in Jeffrey Lurie as owner of the Philadelphia Eagles? Vote now in the poll below and leave your thoughts in the comments.

Lurie Approval Polls:

• January 2017: 42% approval
• December 2016: 41% approval
• November 2016: 71% approval
• September 2016: 96% approval
• May 2016: 58% approval
• July 2015: 91% approval
• April 2015: 83% approval
• February 2015: 73% approval
• January 2015: 76% approval
• December 2014: 95% approval
• November 2014: 95% approval
• October 2014: 94% approval
• July 2014: 96% approval