unCovering the Birds with Jeff McLane

How prepared are the Eagles to defend their Super Bowl title? This question likely won't get answered until the regular season kicks off in a few months. Odds are, it might even take longer than that; a few games, perhaps, to gauge the Eagles' 2025 potential. But one thing is for sure: NFL teams begin building their DNA and habits in the spring through organized team activities and minicamps. With the Eagles having wrapped up their workouts earlier this week, The Philadelphia Inquirer's Jeff McLane takes account of everything he saw and heard down at Eagles headquarters, and, based on early tea leaves, forecasts what to expect going into training camp - especially on defense, where coordinator Vic Fangio will once again have to manage substantial personnel turnover. 00:00 “Fake news” 05:18 Will this be Jordan Davis' year? 11:09 Bye bye Bryce Huff; hello new opportunities for edge rushers 16:12 Jihad Campbell update 19:49 Cooper DeJean could have dual role 23:43 Replacing C.J. Gardner-Johnson 27:45 What to expect from offense unCovering the Birds is a production of The Philadelphia Inquirer and KYW Newsradio Original Podcasts. Look for new episodes throughout the offseason.

There are lots of sources you can go to for comprehensive NFL Draft analysis, but there's only one Mike Mayock. The suburban Philadelphia native and The Haverford School graduate played a few years in the league after a strong stint at Boston College, but his biggest claim to fame is indisputably as a draft expert. Between his seemingly endless familiarity with prospects and an ability to articulate their fits with NFL teams, Mayock has earned a reputation as a go-to draft guru. So, that's who The Philadelphia Inquirer's Jeff McLane turned to when he wanted to go in-depth on the Eagles' 2025 draft picks. From the move up to nab Alabama's Jihaad Campbell to rumblings that other general managers were reluctant to do deals with Howie Roseman, Mayock examines the Eagles' rookies with two questions in mind: do they have the potential to positively impact the franchise's title defense, and can they make up for talent lost earlier in the offseason? 00:00 Tackling the Eagles' moves in the 2025 NFL Draft with analyst Mike Mayock 04:03 First-round pick Jihaad Campbell: where to play him and injury concerns 12:28 Second-round selection Andrew Mukuba: does size really matter? 19:45 Don't sleep on the third-day prospects 26:05 What's been Howie Roseman's secret to drafting quality starters in recent years? 33:47 Rumor or real life: Are other GMs avoiding trades with Roseman? unCovering the Birds is a production of The Philadelphia Inquirer and KYW Newsradio Original Podcasts. Look for new episodes throughout the offseason.

Imagine this: you've got an exclusive, high-profile, high-pressure gig; only 31 other people on the planet do what you do. You're on vacation; your regular spot in a relatively obscure location. Then, off in the distance, you see someone familiar approaching. Could it really be one of your professional peers, out for a leisurely bike ride in the same vacation town? A little more than a decade ago, longtime Baltimore Ravens executive Ozzie Newsome and Eagles general manager Howie Roseman weren't close. A chance encounter along the Alabama gulf shore changed that, and sowed the seeds for a valuable friendship - personal and professional - between the two NFL personnel men. The Philadelphia Inquirer's Jeff McLane examines the role that Newsome's mentorship and other key moments in Roseman's life have played in propelling the Eagles' GM to the top of his profession. 00:00 A chance encounter with Howie Roseman 04:38 Jake Rosenberg reflects on life with a young Howie 06:47 What makes Roseman a great GM? 13:54 In lockstep with Jeffrey Lurie 18:50 The Chip Kelly crisis 28:18 Another shot 36:24 Roseman's legacy unCovering the Birds is a production of The Philadelphia Inquirer and KYW Newsradio Original Podcasts. Look for new episodes throughout the offseason.

The weather in Palm Beach during the annual NFL owners meetings was touch-and-go by South Florida standards. One attendee, however, was certainly shining brighter than most. Yes, Jeffrey Lurie, on the heels of his Philadelphia Eagles winning a second Super Bowl title in seven years, was aglow. Not only that, his public comments sent a clear message to the rest of the league: he expects the franchise to keep winning, and winning big. The Philadelphia Inquirer's Jeff McLane reads between the lines of Lurie's remarks at the owners meetings, and also sits down with Sportsradio WIP's Hugh Douglas, who recently aired some thoughts on his show about Jeff's personality. 00:00 Jeff addresses his supposed "dry" personality 05:28 Hugh Douglas explains his comments, talks Eagles 24:14 A debrief from the NFL owners meetings unCovering the Birds is a production of The Philadelphia Inquirer and KYW Newsradio Original Podcasts. Look for new episodes throughout the offseason.

We know Howie Roseman is passionate. Obsessive, too. These traits have revealed themselves constantly throughout his 15-year tenure as the Philadelphia Eagles' general manager, propelling him to the top of his profession. The characteristics, however, show up in other parts of his life as well, specifically one of his favorite endeavors away from the game. Join The Philadelphia Inquirer's Jeff McLaneas he chats with Roseman about his “other” big obsession, and explores how it overlaps and has become intertwined with his day job - building a championship-winning roster for one of the most successful NFL franchises in the last decade. 00:00 Howie Roseman's other obsession 05:10 A serious eater 09:13 The origins of a foodie 15:53 How Roseman's football and foodie worlds intertwine unCovering the Birds is a production of The Philadelphia Inquirer and KYW Newsradio Original Podcasts. Look for new episodes throughout the offseason.

It's been a little more than a month since the Philadelphia Eagles smashed the Kansas City Chiefs in Super Bowl 59. While the Eagles' front office has been forced to move on from the victory rather quickly due to a flurry of offseason activity, the afterglow from the team's second championship run still remains strong. A recent live taping of unCovering the Birds between The Philadelphia Inquirer's Jeff McLane and Eagles Radio Network analyst Mike Quick demonstrated as much. At FitlerClub in Center City, the duo discussed plenty of topical items, from recent free agency developments to new coaching hires, but also put key storylines from the Eagles' 2024 title run into perspective: Where does Jalen Hurts belong in conversations about elite NFL quarterbacks? How has Nick Sirianni become so effective at his job in such a relatively short period of time? And what makes Saquon Barkley one of Mike's favorite all-time Eagles? Plus, Jeff and Mike take questions from the audience. Listen to hear great stories from the Eagles' historic season, and find out if Jeff and Mike think the team is capable of bringing another parade to Broad Street next year. 05:16 Reaction to recent free agency developments 19:17 How Nick Sirianni is evolving and maturing as an NFL head coach 24:22 Is there any reason why Jalen Hurts should not be considered an elite NFL quarterback? 27:22 Kevin Patullo has never called plays in the NFL; should we be concerned? 33:12 Why Saquon Barkley instantly became one of Mike's favorite Eagles 46:19 Rapid fire 52:00 Jeff's big reveal to Mike, audience Q&A unCovering the Birds is a production of The Philadelphia Inquirer and KYW Newsradio Original Podcasts. Look for new episodes throughout the offseason.

The scouting combine. It's the NFL's ultimate mixer. Every year, prospects, powerbrokers, pundits, and aspiring professionals in the football industry descend on Indianapolis at the end of February for a week of talent evaluation, networking, and late nights. The TV networks covering the combine want you to see the drills, testing, and player soundbites. The reality, though, is that the real action takes place outside of public view, as covert conversations begin to shape the offseason's juiciest storylines. The Philadelphia Inquirer's Jeff McLane is a veteran of the combine. From the corridors of Lucas Oil Stadium to the white cloth-covered tables at the legendary St. Elmo Steakhouse, tag along for an immersive, behind-the-scenes glimpse at one of the NFL's busiest, high-profile events. 00:00 Behind the scenes at the NFL Combine 26:37 Who's next? Eagles that need to step up in 2025 unCovering the Birds is a production of The Philadelphia Inquirer and KYW Newsradio Original Podcasts. Look for new episodes throughout the offseason.

What was the post-game celebration like inside the locker room and beyond? Who kept the festivities going way into the early hours of the morning? In the afterglow of the Philadelphia Eagles' dominant win over the Kansas City Chiefs in Super Bowl 59, it was time to party, and the Eagles didn't let the well-earned opportunity pass them by. From the mellow yet gratified vibes of the team's defensive guru to the veteran who wanted to savor the championship feeling a little longer a second time around, The Philadelphia Inquirer's Jeff McLane gives you a fly-on-the wall glimpse of over six hours of Eagles' revelry in New Orleans. Featuring interviews with owner Jeffrey Lurie, general manager Howie Roseman, defensive end Brandon Graham, and more. unCovering the Birds is a production of The Philadelphia Inquirer and KYW Newsradio Original Podcasts. Look for new episodes each week during the regular season.

The last time Carson Wentz was in a Super Bowl, he was on the wrong end of a fairy tail script - injured and watching from the sideline as Philadelphia Eagles' back-up quarterback Nick Foles led the franchise to its first ever title, finishing the job that Wentz started during the regular season before getting hurt. This year, should anything happen to Kansas City starter Patrick Mahomes, Wentz, now the Chiefs' second-stringer, would be a snap away from being summoned to create a little magic of his own and help the team three-peat. During Super Bowl week in New Orleans, The Philadelphia Inquirer's Jeff McLane spent some time with Wentz, who he hadn't interviewed in four years. Hear what the former Eagles' no. 2 draft pick has to say about his outlook for the future, and how the passing of time has allowed him to put his stint in Philadelphia in perspective. Plus, in a new “Pick Six” segment, Jeff chats with Pro Bowl center Cam Jurgens about the art of making beef jerky and life on his family's farm. Jeff also previews some of the key X's and O's ahead of Sunday's clash at Caesars Superdome, and gives his prediction for the game. 00:00 Catching up with Carson Wentz 17:55 “Pick Six” with Cam Jurgens 24:40 Super Bowl 59 matchups and prediction unCovering the Birds is a production of The Philadelphia Inquirer and KYW Newsradio Original Podcasts. Look for new episodes each week during the regular season.

This time a year ago, Philadelphia Eagles general manager Howie Roseman and head coach Nick Sirianni sat next to each other awkwardly on the dais at team headquarters, enduring a barrage of pointed press conference questions as they dissected the franchise's emphatic failure to live up to the previous season's Super Bowl run. Adding to the tension was prior speculation about Sirianni's job, and whether he would return for 2024. Good thing he did. Fast forward to this winter, and the Eagles are back on the NFL's biggest stage, days away from their latest shot at a second title. What factors gave Roseman the conviction not to blow the Eagles up? How did Sirianni navigate coaching staff changes and months of intense scrutiny to right the ship? The Philadelphia Inquirer's Jeff McLane gives you an all-access press pass to recently-embargoed media sessions with both men, who reflect on this season's dramatic turnaround. Plus, in a follow-up to a story about Vic Fangio published on the podcast earlier in the season, Jeff dives deeper into the mind of the Eagles' defensive coordinator through interviews with mentors, coaches, and players Fangio's crossed paths with over the course of his lengthy career (is it really true he never laughs?). And be sure to stick around for a conversation with Merrill Reese, the Eagles' Hall of Fame radio play-by-play announcer, who discusses preparing for his latest Super Bowl broadcast. 00:00 Howie Roseman and Nick Sirianni reflect 15:52 Inside the mind of Vic Fangio 29:30 Merrill Reese preps for another Super Bowl Links referenced in the podcast: Vic Fangio podcast feature https://www.audacy.com/podcast/uncovering-the-birds-with-jeff-mclane-e8fbc/episodes/week-13-vs-ravens-vic-fangio-at-last-611f1 Jeff's Fangio profile in the Inquirer https://www.inquirer.com/eagles/vic-fangio-eagles-chiefs-super-bowl-2025-20250205.html unCovering the Birds is a production of The Philadelphia Inquirer and KYW Newsradio Original Podcasts. Look for new episodes each week during the regular season.

It was a dynamic play, a defining moment during the Philadelphia Eagles' playoff run that helped propel the team closer to its second-ever championship. Whether they ultimately achieve that goal remains to be seen. But what's already certain is that, regardless of the outcome in Super Bowl 59, running back Saquon Barkley's snow-blanketed, 78-yard touchdown burst in the NFC divisional round against the LA Rams will go down as one of the greatest sequences in Eagles' postseason history. How did Barkley's run materialize? Who were the other key players involved? What was going through their minds as it became clear Barkley had busted loose? Relive the MVP candidate's memorable run with an oral history compiled by The Philadelphia Inquirer's Jeff McLane, who recently made the rounds in the Eagles' locker room to get a step-by-step account of what happened. Plus, in a new “Pick Six” segment, Jeff finds out why this season has been Jahan Dotson's favorite in his three years in the NFL, despite the wideout posting the lowest numbers of his career. They also dish on Penn State preferences, and the vibes inside the Eagles' receiver room. 00:00 An oral history: Saquon Barkley's snow-covered, 78-yard touchdown run 11:36 “Pick Six” with Eagles wide receiver Jahan Dotson Links referenced in this episode: NFL Films' clip of Saquon Barkley's 78-yard touchdown vs. LA Rams https://www.reddit.com/r/nfl/comments/1i66rfu/highlight_nfl_films_footage_of_the_78_yard_saquon/ Vote for unCovering the Birds for the Pen and Pencil Club's Philly News Awards! https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1CVEk9HIqnFFM3JqaedQRV_XoecIUatZMv9zxJEZKTRY/viewform?edit_requested=true unCovering the Birds is a production of The Philadelphia Inquirer and KYW Newsradio Original Podcasts. Look for new episodes each week during the regular season.

Jalen Hurts puffed a big a** cigar. Gillie da kid led a dance party. A pair of team-changing rookies basked in the shine of new hardware. These were just some of the snapshots from the Philadelphia Eagles' victorious locker room following their NFC championship win over the Washington Commanders. Want to hear more? The Philadelphia Inquirer's Jeff McLane serves as your fly on the wall during the Eagles' postgame celebration, and frames key factors that not only helped the team get back to the Super Bowl, but will also likely determine whether the group can exact revenge on the Kansas City Chiefs for a second championship. unCovering the Birds is a production of The Philadelphia Inquirer and KYW Newsradio Original Podcasts. Look for new episodes each week during the regular season.

With all due respect to the quarterback, maybe we should be spending more time talking about the other “Jalen” on the Philadelphia Eagles' roster. For as up and down a performance as Jalen Hurts endured in the Eagles' Divisional playoff matchup with the LA Rams, Jalen Carter proved an indomitable force, especially in crunch time. It's hard to imagine his team surviving the nail-biter without him. In just his second year, Carter is becoming known as one of the top interior defensive linemen in the NFL. Should he be getting even more love? The Philadelphia Inquirer's Jeff McLane puts the rising star's season into context, and examines one of the most underrated aspects of his game. Plus, with Hurts and the passing attack continuing to struggle in the postseason, Jeff asks around to see if he can get a better sense of what the Eagles can do to right the ship. And be sure to check out the latest installment of our “Pick Six” interview series. This week, Jeff talks to Eagles defensive tackle Jordan Davis, who explains the origins of his ‘DJ Oreo' nickname and the inspiration behind some of his dance moves. 00:00 The “other” Jalen, and his rising star 10:20 Can the passing game get on track? Does it need to? 25:11 Pick Six with Jordan Davis 31:48 Setting the table for Round 3 vs. Washington unCovering the Birds is a production of The Philadelphia Inquirer and KYW Newsradio Original Podcasts. Look for new episodes each week during the regular season.

The Eagles hear your concerns about the (lack of) offensive style points in their NFC Wild Card win over the Green Bay Packers. They know everyone's got thoughts about which team they match up best against in the next round. Guess what? To borrow a phrase used by several players inside the victorious postgame locker room at Lincoln Financial Field, they “don't give a f***.” Not because they're being dismissive of fans or media, but because they understand that, in the playoffs, the bottom line is all that matters when faced with win-or-go-home stakes. And while the offense had its struggles against Green Bay, the defense was once again dominant, a sign The Philadelphia Inquirer's Jeff McLane considers auspicious for the Eagles' Super Bowl chances. Listen to his insights from the Eagles' postseason opener, and analysis of the team's rematch with the LA Rams. Also, breakout rookie cornerback Cooper DeJean joins Jeff for his latest “Pick Six” interview, and talks about growing up in a tiny midwest town, only to get to know WNBA star Caitlin Clark when she and DeJean overlapped at the University of Iowa. Plus, Jeff speaks with Eagles free-agents-to-be Milton Williams and Zack Baun about the excitement of the present, and uncertainty of their respective futures. 00:00 The Eagles' “IDGAF” mindset 04:42 Defense shines vs. Packers 15:15 What's next for Milton Williams, Zack Baun, and other free-agents-to- be? 23:03 “Pick Six” with Cooper DeJean 31:07 Previewing the Rams unCovering the Birds is a production of The Philadelphia Inquirer and KYW Newsradio Original Podcasts. Look for new episodes each week during the regular season.

45 player interviews. An array of perspectives. This was the assignment The Philadelphia Inquirer's Jeff McLane embarked on over the final two weeks of the regular season, during which he spoke with nearly every member of the Philadelphia Eagles' revolving 53-man roster for his annual year-in-review player survey. On the heels of a bounce back 14-3 regular season, Jeff polled players on five big picture topics: team MVP, most memorable moment, turning point, unheralded player, and areas of personal growth and development. As the Eagles get ready to start their postseason run, listen back on the defining storylines from 2024 through the eyes of the players who lived them. Plus, Jeff previews the Eagles' NFC WildCard playoff matchup with the Green Bay Packers, a team the Eagles defeated in the season opener. 00:00 Setting the stage for the playoffs 04:07 Jeff McLane's annual end-of-regular season player survey: team MVP, most memorable moment, turning point, unheralded player, and areas of personal growth and development 32:11 Previewing the Green Bay unCovering the Birds is a production of The Philadelphia Inquirer and KYW Newsradio Original Podcasts. Look for new episodes each week during the regular season.

Byproduct of circumstance and the absence of key personnel, or warning signs of reasons for concern? What should be made of the Philadelphia Eagles' disappointing last-second loss to Washington that halted a franchise-record 10-game winning streak, and diminished the Eagles' chances of earning the no. 1 playoff seed in the NFC?The Philadelphia Inquirer's Jeff McLane takes a measured look at the issues that surfaced against the Commanders, and addresses what the team can do about problems it can control, and others it can't - namely, the status of injured quarterback Jalen Hurts. Plus, Jeff examines the underrated yet undeniably great season being put together by left tackle Jordan Mailata, who's making a strong case for his first Pro Bowl bid. And did you catch that awkward exchange between head coach Nick Sirianni and former Eagles tight end Zach Ertz after the Commanders game? Jeff has the scoop on what happened. 00:00 Sorting through the slop from the loss to Washington 13:01 What happened between Nick Sirianni and Zach Ertz during their postgame handshake? 17:03 Jordan Mailata makes bid for first Pro Bowl 27:18 Previewing the Cowboys, Round 2 unCovering the Birds is a production of The Philadelphia Inquirer and KYW Newsradio Original Podcasts. Look for new episodes each week during the regular season.

First came a bombshell comment. Then, some backtracking and heart-to-hearts, followed by a few tears. In the end, there was reconciliation, capped by a most impressive win. All in a week's work for the surging Philadelphia Eagles, which overcame internal tension stemming from Brandon Graham's viral comments on WIP and a tough opponent in the Pittsburgh Steelers to earn a franchise-record 10th victory in a row. The Eagles now share the top record in the NFC, and look as much like a Super Bowl contender as any team in the NFL. What happened behind the scenes at NovaCare Complex last week? How did the Eagles manage to weather the media storm? The Philadelphia Inquirer's Jeff McLane reports on the saga that seemed to consume everyone outside the organization, but not many people within it. Plus, veteran outside linebacker Josh Sweat joins Jeff for this week's “Pick Six,” and shares his tips on computer building, leadership, and when to switch your number. 00:00 - Behind-the-scenes of a saga 23:08 - “Pick Six” with Josh Sweat 33:20 - Postseason implications unCovering the Birds is a production of The Philadelphia Inquirer and KYW Newsradio Original Podcasts. Look for new episodes each week during the regular season.

From backwards hurdles to dazzling touchdown runs, whenever Saquon Barkley makes a big play on the field, people notice. Behind the scenes, his gestures are more subtle, but the impact is just as significant. It could be a dap for an anxious rookie, or an invitation to a third-stringer to come over for Thanksgiving dinner. In speaking to over a dozen members of the Philadelphia Eagles organization in recent weeks, The Philadelphia Inquirer's Jeff McLane came away with a unanimous consensus: players and coaches love the addition of Barkley, both to the depth chart and in the locker room. With the Eagles continuing to close in on the playoffs, find out why Barkley has been an ideal fit, and how his presence and intangibles should be enough to spare the team an inglorious fate the likes of which it suffered last year. 00:00 Saquon Barkley, Part I: The “special dude” 17:40 Saquon Barkley, Part II: The “enforcer” unCovering the Birds is a production of The Philadelphia Inquirer and KYW Newsradio Original Podcasts. Look for new episodes each week during the regular season.

He was much-hyped, and has much delivered. With five games to go in the 2024 regular season, Vic Fangio has the Philadelphia Eagles defense on pace to finish as one of the top statistical units in the NFL - an incredible ascent for a group that ranked towards the bottom of the league last year. Fangio's fingerprints can be seen all over the place, from scheme to execution, and player development as well. What are the secrets to his success and, in turn, the success of the Eagles' defense? The Philadelphia Inquirer's Jeff McLane zooms in on the old-school, veteran coordinator, and explains why Fangio has not only been a perfect fit, but a driving force behind the Eagles' postseason push. Plus, in a new "Pick Six" segment, get to know right guard Mekhi Becton, whose become quite adept at figuring things out, whether he's on the football field, building bricks, or in the kitchen. 00:00 How Vic Fangio turned the Eagles defense around 19:20 “Pick Six” with Mekhi Becton 26:17 Outsiders are talking Super Bowl; what about inside the Eagles' locker room? unCovering the Birds is a production of The Philadelphia Inquirer and KYW Newsradio Original Podcasts. Look for new episodes each week during the regular season.

It's a question that's been dogging the Eagles ever since preparations for the season began in earnest, and has only gotten more prevalent the more the team has won. “What are the lessons learned from last year?” With the Eagles sporting a near identical record heading into Week 13 as they did before the bottom fell out in 2023, media and fans alike seem eager to see if the 2024 edition of the Birds will suffer a similar fate. While there's no guarantee for a deeper finish this winter, The Philadelphia Inquirer's Jeff McLane doubts the Eagles are in store for another epic collapse. The identity of the team is stronger, the talent and coaching better. But even though this year's Eagles look better than last year's group, obstacles lie ahead, especially in light of Brandon Graham's season-ending injury, and Saquon Barkley's increasing workload. Plus, with a major test against Derrick Henry and the Baltimore Ravens looming, Jeff explores how an off-field mishap appears to have fueled defensive tackle Jalen Carter's dominant second season. 00:00 Why this won't be a repeat of 2023 03:41 Brandon Graham's loss will hurt more on the field than in the locker room 11:56 The maturation and dominance of Jalen Carter 21:38 A big battle in Baltimore unCovering the Birds is a production of The Philadelphia Inquirer and KYW Newsradio Original Podcasts. Look for new episodes each week during the regular season.

The last time the Philadelphia Eagles took a cornerback in the first round of the NFL Draft? Before this year, it was 2002. The last time they chose cornerbacks with each of their first two picks, like they also did this spring? Same deal, in 2022, when the team selected Lito Sheppard and Sheldon Brown - two mainstays during the Andy Reid-Donovan McNabb era. If early returns are any indication, the rookie tandem of Quinyon Mitchell and Cooper DeJean could be primed to have a similar positive impact on the franchise's fortunes. What's clicked for the youngsters both separately and collectively that's allowed them to earn starting roles this early in their careers? How does their relationship contrast on and off the field? The Philadelphia Inquirer's Jeff McLane profiles the Birds' budding defensive backfield duo. Also, as good as Saquon Barkley has been, it always helps to have a high-quality back-up for such a heavy-usage rusher. Jeff goes inside the weight room to highlight an area where second-stringer Kenny Gainwell has Barkley beat. Plus, with the Eagles looking more and more like a contender during their six-game winning streak, we examine three factors that could put the team in the running for the NFC's top playoff seed, and three more that could hold them back. unCovering the Birds is a production of The Philadelphia Inquirer and KYW Newsradio Original Podcasts. Look for new episodes each week during the regular season.

The Philadelphia Eagles handled the first team on their schedule this week - beating the Dallas Cowboys on the road. And it wasn't just a win. It was a drubbing, marking the Eagles' first win at AT&T Stadium in seven years. Now, on short rest, what figures to be a much stiffer, significant challenge awaits - a Thursday Night Football showdown with the Washington Commanders. At stake, sole control of the NFC East heading into the home stretch of the season. The Eagles say Washington has their full attention. In fact, the Birds believe they still haven't played their best football yet, despite winning five in a row. What would help them reach a higher level? The Philadelphia Inquirer's Jeff McLane thinks the answer could lie with getting star receiver DeVonta Smith back in the mix. Plus, in this week's “Pick Six” interview, Zack Baun tells Jeff what it was like growing up with a single mom, and why he refuses to let the sport he plays define him. 00:00 DeVonta Smith says fewer targets “tough,” but wants to win 14:17 “Pick Six” with Zack Baun 22:22 First place on the line in Thursday Night Football showdown with Washington Commanders unCovering the Birds is a production of The Philadelphia Inquirer and KYW Newsradio Original Podcasts. Look for new episodes each week during the regular season.

Four games into the season, the Eagles' offense was stuck. With the team on its bye week, key members of the offensive line felt it was time to speak up. So they went to their head coach and offensive coordinator with feedback. It was straightforward and to the point. “We've got Saquon ‘F***ing' Barkley. Let's give him the f***ing ball.” Message received. Since then, the Eagles haven't lost, climbing their way to the top of the NFC. But for as much as the players deserve props for pushing a run-first attack, so too does Nick Sirianni for implementing it. Given the Eagles' steady improvement during the season, The Philadelphia Inquirer's Jeff McLane wonders if there's more Sirianni should be getting credit for… Plus, in this week's “Pick Six,” Jeff catches up with tight end Grant Calcaterra, who grew up a triplet, briefly retired from football, only to later find his way back and break through to the NFL. Jeff also reexamines some of Sirianni's crucial decisions against the Jaguars, and, despite the decisions not working out, explains why we shouldn't have been surprised by Sirianni's aggressive approach. 00:00 “Give him the f****ing ball” 13:05 Don't blame Sirianni for being aggressive 17:37 “Pick Six” with Grant Calcaterra 25:33 It's Cowboys Week! unCovering the Birds is a production of The Philadelphia Inquirer and KYW Newsradio Original Podcasts. Look for new episodes each week during the regular season.

Hope can be fickle in football, but right now, following an impressive Week 8 victory vs. the Cincinnati Bengals, the Philadelphia Eagles have built modest momentum. What's been responsible for the turnaround during the team's three-game winning streak? For starters, the head coach tweaked his approach, and his quarterback has responded with improved play. Are Nick Sirianni and Jalen Hurts sold on the evolution of the offense? The Philadelphia Inquirer's Jeff McLane takes a look at the Eagles' new identity, and explains why certain players might be more eager to fully embrace it than Sirianni. Plus, with A.J. Brown putting together another dominant season, Jeff poses the question: could the 27-year old be the Eagles' best receiver of all-time? And in this week's “Pick Six” segment, find out which member of the offensive line Landon Dickerson has developed a secret language with. 00:00 How DeVonta Smith's big touchdown signals change in offense 08:52 Is A.J. Brown the Eagles' best receiver of all-time? 18:25 “Pick Six” with Landon Dickerson 31:30 Welcome back, Dough Pederson (Part II) Links referenced by Jeff in the episode… A.J. Brown podcast: https://www.audacy.com/podcast/uncovering-the-birds-with-jeff-mclane-e8fbc/episodes/raising-aj-brown-24ecc A.J. Brown article: https://www.inquirer.com/eagles/inq2/eagles-aj-brown-bio-starkville-mississippi-20230905.html unCovering the Birds is a production of The Philadelphia Inquirer and KYW Newsradio Original Podcasts. Look for new episodes each week during the regular season.

Saquon Barkley was a stud, the defense was dominant, and all seems well in Eagles Land, at least for now, following a blowout win over the New York Giants. But beyond the breakout runs and bevy of sacks, there were other noteworthy developments from the victory - some encouraging, others indicators of just how much more work the Eagles have to do as they near the halfway point of the season. The Philadelphia Inquirer's Jeff McLane takes a look at the coaches' tape, and zeroes in on areas where quarterback Jalen Hurts still needs to improve. Plus, ahead of a potential matchup with Cincinnati Bengals star receiver Ja'Marr Chase, rookie cornerback Quinyon Mitchell joins Jeff for this week's “Pick Six” segment. They talk about nicknames, family, and favorite movies. 00:00 Jalen Hurts film study 12:01 Where's Jordan Davis? 17:00 “Pick Six” with Quinyon Mitchell 24:11 Vindication for Nick Sirianni unCovering the Birds is a production of The Philadelphia Inquirer and KYW Newsradio Original Podcasts. Look for new episodes each week during the regular season.

The consensus within the Philadelphia Eagles was virtually unanimous: it wasn't pretty, but they got what they needed against the lowly Cleveland Browns - a win. The result nudged the 3-2 Eagles back above .500, and brought them within a half-game of first place in the NFC East. All good things, right? Yes, but the seemingly impulsive actions of head coach Nick Sirianni overshadowed the Eagles' success. What did Sirianni's back-and-forth with the crowd in the closing moment of the fourth quarter say about his ability to handle his emotions? How did members of the organization feel about his antics? The Philadelphia Inquirer's Jeff McLane does some digging… Plus, ahead of Saquon Barkley's first trip back to MetLife Stadium to face his former team, the New York Giants, the star running back joins Jeff for a “Pick Six” segment and dishes on Penn State culture, Philadelphia area golf clubs, and what he wants to do after his NFL playing career. 00:00 Team sources label Sirianni's behavior "embarrassing" 16:01 'Pick Six' with Saquon Barkley 27:23 Hurts, Sirianni relationship showing signs of progress Oh, and here's the link Jeff referenced in the episode about the time Barkley torched the Eagles in 2018: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-D4oRMI0uCQ unCovering the Birds is a production of The Philadelphia Inquirer and KYW Newsradio Original Podcasts. New for this season, look for fresh episodes to drop weekly in the days following every Eagles' game.

All it took was a confident, affirming answer. But once again, instead of seizing an opportunity to diffuse speculation, Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts added fuel to the fire surrounding the stability of his relationship with head coach Nick Sirianni. The question posed to Hurts after the Eagles' lopsided loss in Tampa: given their respective leadership duties with the team, would he and Sirianni huddle up and try to help solve the Eagles' identity issues during the upcoming bye week? “We have our moments,” Hurts said flatly. The response was as brief as it was evasive, and marked yet another instance since last season's collapse in which Hurts left his feelings towards Sirianni open to interpretation. The Philadelphia Inquirer's Jeff McLane examines the duo's dynamics, and why it seems like Sirianni typically goes out of his way to defend Hurts. Plus, we pull back the curtain on Cam Jurgens' transition to the Eagles' starting center job, all while the shadow of his future-Hall-of-Fame predecessor looms over him. 00:00 Does Nick Sirianni shield Jalen Hurts from criticism? 11:45 Cam Jurgens' transition to starting center 21:05 Bryce Huff is "frustrated" unCovering the Birds is a production of The Philadelphia Inquirer and KYW Newsradio Original Podcasts. New for this season, look for fresh episodes to drop weekly in the days following every Eagles' game.

The Philadelphia Eagles were angry. And on the heels of a painful loss in their home opener, they played like it. From the dominance of the defensive line, to Jalen Hurts' poised, game-winning drive with time running out, the Eagles notched a resilient Week 3 win in New Orleans. Listen as The Philadelphia Inquirer's Jeff McLane takes you on a tour around the victorious winners' locker room at the Superdome through interviews with several key contributors.  Plus, details on how and why Hurts, now in his fifth season, might finally be finding his leadership voice, and a new Pick Six interview with emerging linebacker Nakobe Dean.  00:00 Jeff chats with C.J. Gardner-Johnson 06:41 Jalen Carter tells Jeff why he thinks his performance vs. Saints was still "trash" 09:48 Jordan Davis explains why the Eagles played angry 13:07 Jalen Hurts and signs of stronger leadership 20:30 'Pick Six' with Nakobe Dean 29:40 Nick Sirianni's fourth-down decisions under the microscope unCovering the Birds is a production of The Philadelphia Inquirer and KYW Newsradio Original Podcasts. New for this season, look for fresh episodes to drop weekly in the days following every Eagles' game. 

The Eagles' home opener on Monday Night Football was there for the taking, and the Atlanta Falcons obliged, pulling off a stunning upset in the final minutes. There were multiple factors that led to the 22-21 loss, which dropped the Eagles to 1-1. But two weeks into the season, one problem has proven more glaring and costly than the rest: the Eagles' defensive line, a group loaded with blue-chip talent that seemed poised to take a crucial step forward this year. Why has the Eagles' D-line underperformed? Can practice reps and continued development alone fix their issues? Or, did Eagles' general manager Howie Roseman and his talent evaluators make some missteps in constructing the unit? The Philadelphia Inquirer's Jeff McLane examines these questions in the aftermath of the Eagles' agonizing defeat. Plus, with Nick Foles in town for his retirement ceremony at Lincoln Financial Field, Jeff revisits an overlooked “what if” moment from the Super Bowl MVP's career that, had it gone a different way, might have propelled his legacy to even higher heights.  unCovering the Birds is a production of The Philadelphia Inquirer and KYW Newsradio Original Podcasts. New for this season, look for fresh episodes to drop weekly in the days following every Eagles' game.  Here's the article link Jeff referenced in the episode. 

The Eagles went to Brazil and came back with what they were looking for - a win to open the 2024 season. From Saquon Barkley's breakout debut to a sturdy showing from the revamped offensive line, there were encouraging signs in the team's 34-29 victory over the Green Bay Packers. But there was also plenty of room for improvement; issues the Eagles will have to address if they want to become a Super Bowl contender. After watching game tape, The Philadelphia Inquirer's Jeff McLane gives his “good” and “bad” reports from Week 1, and details what he's been hearing about some potential personnel developments.  Plus, starting tight end Dallas Goedert joins Jeff for a “Pick Six” question-and-answer segment. 00:00 Telling Week 1 takeaways  18:01 "Pick Six" with Dallas Goedert 24:01 Linebacker rumblings... unCovering the Birds is a production of The Philadelphia Inquirer and KYW Newsradio Original Podcasts. New for this season, look for fresh episodes to drop weekly in the days following every Eagles' game. 

Nick Sirianni survived the Eagles' disastrous collapse last season - barely. At the heart of criticism surrounding the fourth-year head coach was a sideline temperament that, at times, crossed the line from passionate to problematic. Did he suffer from a lack of composure? Were his antics undermining how the team was treated by referees? Was his enthusiasm endearing to players, or perceived as childish? As the Eagles get set to start anew in 2024, The Philadelphia Inquirer's Jeff McLane asks Sirianni whether he's changed, and talks to other members of the organization about what they've noticed. Plus, ahead of the Eagles' historic regular season opener in São Paulo, Jeff talks with Jake Stoutland, son of the team's longtime offensive line coach, and his wife, Nathalia, about how football and Brazil are intertwined in their lives.  unCovering the Birds is a production of The Philadelphia Inquirer and KYW Newsradio Original Podcasts. New for this season, look for fresh episodes to drop weekly in the days following every Eagles' game. 

After beating up on mostly themselves the first two weeks of training camp, the Philadelphia Eagles welcomed a fresh challenge: a trip to New England for a joint practice with the Patriots, followed by a preseason game between the two teams. The Philadelphia Inquirer's Jeff McLane traveled to Foxboro, MA to take in the action, and explains why the joint practice might have been the singular, most important event of the Eagles' preseason. Plus, he chats with longtime Patriots beat reporter Greg Bedard about a rumor that just won't go away: ex-New England head coach Bill Belichick's interest in Nick Sirianni's job... 00:00 Revelations from joint practice with Patriots 13:58 Greg Bedard on Bill Belichick's rumored interest in Eagles 27:16 Stock up, stock down report unCovering the Birds is a production of The Philadelphia Inquirer and KYW Newsradio Original Podcasts. Look for new episodes throughout 2024 training camp, and publishing weekly beginning with the start of the regular season.

C.J. Gardner-Johnson is back with the Philadelphia Eagles, and has brought the big chip on his shoulder with him. That much was clear during his unfiltered first press conference of training camp. What makes the veteran safety tick? How did his second stint with the Eagles come together? Could he be injury prone? The Philadelphia Inquirer's Jeff McLane examines Gardner-Johnson's place on the Eagles' roster, highlights DeVonta Smith's stellar camp, and delivers a preseason stock report.  Plus, Jeff goes one-on-one with starting guard Jordan Mailata, who discusses everything from songs he'd never try to sing to how he's moving on after Jason Kelce's retirement. 00:00 Week 2 training camp notes: CJGJ, DeVonta Smith, and stock report 13:48 Jordan Mailata interview 25:00 Preseason opener preview unCovering the Birds is a production of The Philadelphia Inquirer and KYW Newsradio Original Podcasts. Look for new episodes throughout 2024 training camp, and publishing weekly beginning with the start of the regular season.

The first week of Philadelphia Eagles training camp is in the books. What key storylines are taking shape? The Philadelphia Inquirer's Jeff McLane has been embedded at the NovaCare Complex, and checks in with his first impressions of a group eager to embrace a clean slate following a stinging finish last season. Plus, on the cusp of receiving his profession's highest honor, legendary Eagles radio play-by-play broadcaster Merrill Reese talks with Jeff about a journey that has taken him from doing live M&M television commercials as a kid to the Pro Football Hall of Fame, where he'll be inducted this weekend.  00:00 Intro / Merrill Reese interview - Part I 06:38 Jeff's training camp notebook 16:20 Merrill Reese interview - Part II unCovering the Birds is a production of The Philadelphia Inquirer and KYW Newsradio Original Podcasts. Look for new episodes throughout 2024 training camp, and publishing weekly beginning with the start of the regular season.

Are you ready? It's time for training camp. All the speculation, hypotheticals, and "what if's" from the past six months since the Philadelphia Eagles' brutal end to the 2023 season are gone. Finally, we're on the cusp of getting answers, and The Philadelphia Inquirer's Jeff McLane is here to give them to you.  For Season 4 of unCovering the Birds, Jeff plans to react to what's happening in the moment - week by week, game by game, big story by big story - and bring you the perspective and analysis of an insider embedded with the team. Think of the podcast as his audio diary of the 2024 season, and your companion for making sense of what's going on with the Eagles behind the scenes. Listen at inquirer.com/podcasts, free on the Audacy app, or wherever podcasts are available.  unCovering the Birds is a production of The Philadelphia Inquirer and KYW Newsradio Original Podcasts.

Evidence of a disconnect, or perhaps a difference in perspective resulting from changing dynamics? For Jalen Hurts and Nick Sirianni, the answer wasn't clear after the Philadelphia Eagles' quarterback and head coach sounded like they were on separate pages when asked about changes to the team's offense heading into the 2024 season. What's really happening? On the Season Three finale of unCovering the Birds, The Philadelphia Inquirer's Eagles beat reporter Jeff McLane dives into this question and other important subplots heard and observed during spring workouts. Learn more about the Eagles' new coordinators, emerging leaders, and key position battles as training camp looms around the corner.  unCovering the Birds is a production of The Philadelphia Inquirer and KYW Newsradio Original Podcasts. 

Todd Herremans and Brent Celek were more than just teammates. They were friends and later business partners. As the two former Philadelphia Eagles get farther away from their playing days, they've found similar and different ways to heal from the physical and mental punishment of such a violent sport. From cannabis to dietary changes, The Philadelphia Inquirer's Jeff McLane investigates how these retired Eagles cope with pain as they transition deeper into the next phase of their lives.  unCovering the Birds is a production of The Philadelphia Inquirer and KYW Newsradio Original Podcasts. Look for new episodes in Season 3 dropping throughout the spring. 

Death threats. Job threats. Uncertainty about the future, both short- and long-term. The consequences of taking a stand for racial justice hit Steven Means almost immediately. It was the outset of the 2016 season, and he, along with a wave of players across the NFL, felt compelled to protest multiple police killings of Black men earlier in the summer. Even though Means knew raising a fist with Malcolm Jenkins during the singing of the national anthem before a Monday Night Football game in Chicago would draw backlash, the fallout was fierce. How did Means navigate criticism from both outside the Philadelphia Eagles organization and within it? As a player with far less job and financial security than an entrenched veteran like Jenkins, why did Means get involved? All these years later, does he think it was worth it? Has the United States made progress in respect to racial justice? Through Means' story and perspective, The Philadelphia Inquirer's Jeff McLane examines the price the former Eagle paid for protesting.  unCovering the Birds is a production of The Philadelphia Inquirer and KYW Newsradio Original Podcasts. Look for new episodes in Season 3 dropping throughout the spring.  Here is a link to 'In His Words,' the first-person article written by Steven Means referenced in the podcast.

One former Eagle blacked out. Another had to check himself into a mental health therapy center. Both played in the NFL during the era right before the league overhauled its concussion protocols following the release of alarming findings linking football and brain trauma. What concerns do these ex-players have now about their long-term health? What about current members of the Eagles' roster? Given all the evidence out there, are they worried about their future? The Philadelphia Inquirer's Jeff McLane wraps up a two-part look at concussions and their consequences through a series of short stories, and talks to a pediatric concussion expert about the risks of playing football. Listen to the first installment in this series, which profiles former Eagles' linebacker Stewart Bradley and the team's mishandling of his concussion.  unCovering the Birds is a production of The Philadelphia Inquirer and KYW Newsradio Original Podcasts. Look for new episodes in Season 3 dropping throughout the spring. 

Stewart Bradley tried to get up. He made it to his feet, took about six steps, wobbled, then crumbled to the turf. The reaction from the sold-out crowd at Lincoln Financial Field was one of collective shock. The broadcasters announcing the game were shaken by what they saw. Did Bradley really get his bell rung that badly? How could such a freakish athlete just collapse like that? The situation looked serious, which is what made it all the more stunning to see Bradley back on the field a mere three plays later… In the first installment of a two-part look at how concussions have affected Philadelphia Eagles players past and present, The Philadelphia Inquirer's Jeff McLane catches up with Bradley and his former teammates to revisit one of the scariest moments in recent Eagles' history. Jeff pulls back the curtain on how Bradley was allowed to return to play, and talks to Bradley about the impact head trauma has had on his life since his playing career ended.  unCovering the Birds is a production of The Philadelphia Inquirer and KYW Newsradio Original Podcasts. Look for new episodes in Season 3 dropping throughout the spring. 

Reed Blankenship could feel it - the tingling, the puncture. He couldn't bring himself to look, but he knew it wasn't good. Immediately, he called out for help. He was hurt - badly. In a snap second, Blankenship's trajectory changed. All of a sudden, the persistent, hard-working kid from northern Alabama farm country wasn't so sure what the future held. Would he be able to attain his NFL dreams? Fast forward a few years later, and Blankenship, who went undrafted in 2022, has staked his claim on a pivotal role on the Philadelphia Eagles' defense. What helped Blankenship overcome adversity? Which factors in his life shaped his character? How did the 25-year old go from undrafted rookie free agent to starting safety? The Philadelphia Inquirer's Eagles beat reporter Jeff McLane profiles one of the team's emerging contributors.  unCovering the Birds is a production of The Philadelphia Inquirer and KYW Newsradio Original Podcasts. Look for new episodes in Season 3 dropping throughout the spring. 

It didn't seem right. It didn't feel fair. Jason Kelce's iconic career as a Philadelphia Eagle came to an end in crash and burn fashion. After a promising start to the year that had experts pegging them as Super Bowl favorites, the team fell apart. There would be no repeat trip to the Super Bowl, or second championship ring. A storybook finish wasn't in the cards. But as the pain of the Eagles' demise receded, Kelce was able to look back on his 13-year run with pride. He brought the franchise a title, and gained thousands of adoring fans along the way. Now that football's done, what's next? In the second installment of “Kelce's Last Stand,” The Philadelphia Inquirer's Jeff McLane continues his journey through the Pro Bowler's final go-round, detailing how he handled the Eagles' collapse and what the future could hold for him.  Click here to listen to Part 1. unCovering the Birds is a production of The Philadelphia Inquirer and KYW Newsradio Original Podcasts. Season 3 begins Friday, April 19th, with new episodes dropping throughout the spring.