In 2012, during Andy Reid’s last season as head coach of the Philadelphia Eagles, fans filled the stadium with “Fire Andy” chants. Fast forward to Week 6 of this season, and similar sentiments echoed for current head coach Nick Sirianni, with fans chanting “Fire Nick.” Now, both coaches are set to meet in the Super Bowl for the second time in three years, showcasing a remarkable twist in their careers.
Reid’s career took a dramatic turn after Eagles owner Jeffrey Lurie chose to part ways with him following a disappointing 4-12 season. Despite the turmoil, the separation was unusually amicable for professional sports standards. Reid, who accumulated a record 140 wins, led the Eagles to an impressive nine playoff appearances, six division titles, and five NFC Championship games over his 14 seasons. Nevertheless, the team was unable to clinch a Super Bowl victory during Reid’s tenure, suffering a loss to New England in their one appearance, leading to a growing impatience among fans hungry for a championship.
As Reid exited the Eagles organization on December 31, 2012, he was celebrated by the staff, receiving a game ball and a standing ovation. “I have a hard time standing before people without a few boos involved. But I’m taking it, I’m taking it all in,” Reid remarked. He reflected on his time with the Eagles, stating, “These have been the greatest 14 years of my life.” He also shared an optimistic outlook, saying that change can be beneficial and wishing his successor success, hoping to see a Super Bowl ring in the near future.
Reid quickly transitioned to the Kansas City Chiefs, where he had a significant impact on the franchise after a lengthy nine-hour meeting at the airport with owner Clark Hunt and team executives, forcing him to cancel a scheduled interview with the Arizona Cardinals. In Kansas City, he established a dynasty led by quarterback Patrick Mahomes. This team is on the brink of making history, just one victory away from becoming the first in the Super Bowl era to achieve a three-peat, having already claimed three championships in four appearances over the last five years.
Hunt noted how Reid transformed the organization upon his arrival in 2013 and highlighted the key role Mahomes played in making history possible. The two combined have crafted a legacy many teams aspire to replicate, which is why no other franchise has reached the level of a three-peat.
In Reid’s absence, the Eagles sought to fill his shoes by hiring Chip Kelly, who endured a brief three-year stint. Doug Pederson then took over, leading the team to its first Super Bowl title just two seasons in, but he too was dismissed after three years. Sirianni’s hiring was met with skepticism, mirroring the initial reactions towards Reid and Pederson.
Despite early criticism, particularly during a contentious moment when fans were calling for his dismissal, Sirianni’s tenure has been defined by success. After a tumultuous start, his team rallied behind him, leading to a remarkable streak that included winning ten consecutive games. This season, the Eagles achieved franchise-record 14 wins and displayed dominance in the playoffs, highlighted by their record-setting performance against Washington.
Sirianni emphasized the importance of overcoming adversity both in games and throughout the season. “It’s about overcoming and embracing the adversity,” he reflected. The journey of the 2023-2024 Eagles has been one of resilience, instilling a sense of hunger and determination among the players as they prepare for one final hurdle.
Regardless of the outcome, Reid’s legacy remains secure with a Hall of Fame-worthy career. For Sirianni, a Super Bowl victory would silence his naysayers and cement his own place in Eagles history.
