Eagles offensive coordinator search continues with Graham Harrell expected to stay at USC

The Eagles interviewed USC offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach Graham Harrell on Friday but he will not be taking Philadelphia’s offensive coordinator job, according to a report from The Athletic.

Well, that’s a bummer.

Harrell seemed like an intriguing candidate that could bring some fresh, new ideas to Doug Pederson’s coaching staff. And it was previously reported that Harrell would be okay with not calling plays in Philly.

But the Eagles will have to look elsewhere for their new offensive coordinator.

A number of OC options have already come off the board by this point. The only two available names that the Eagles have been linked to include Miami Dolphins assistant head coach and quarterbacks coach Jim Caldwell ... and Kansas City Chiefs quarterbacks coach Mike Kafka.

Caldwell’s health is a question mark after he had to spend time away from the Dolphins in 2019. There’s also been no word that the Eagles have formally interviewed him.

NFL insider Ian Rapoport reported the Eagles are expected to request an interview with Kafka but there’s an expectation that the Chiefs will block Philly’s request. Kafka is a natural heir for KC’s offensive coordinator job for whenever some team hires Eric Bieniemy to be their head coach.

So, what’s left for the Eagles? Given his successful track record with quarterbacks, I’m partial to hiring Caldwell if that’s a realistic possibility. Jay Gruden is another quality veteran option; he’s interviewing for the Jaguars’ OC job so he’s looking for work. The Eagles could always promote Duce Staley but is he really adding a fresh perspective and/or helping to maximize Carson Wentz?

Howie Roseman and Doug Pederson are expected to meet with some potential OC candidates down at the Senior Bowl this week. Perhaps we’ll get some more news on this front soon.

UPDATE: Some insight on Harrell’s decision.