Eagles Reportedly Add Billy Davis as Defensive Coordinator

Billy Davis was nothing special in terms of candidates for the defensive coordinator position, which he will reportedly be serving as for the Philadelphia Eagles next season. I'll provide a more in-depth analysis tomorrow, but that's the general gist of the hiring.

Davis has been a defensive coordinator at two points during his coaching careers NFL. His first stint came in San Francisco for 2005 and 2006. He took in Arizona the year after their Super Bowl berth, coaching there in 2009 and 2010. Note both of those jobs only stuck for two years and neither of the two gigs were cut short by a change in regime.

To make matters worse, the Eagles interviewed with Davis two weeks ago. This means they knew full well what he brought to the table and weren't jumping at the opportunity to add him to the staff.

It also probably isn't a coincidence that the hiring happens a day after reports emerged of the 49ers blocking interviews with 49ers' defensive backs coach Ed Donatell. His secondary included three Pro Bowlers this season and he was likely the guy that Kelly desired, which means that what I predicted before has come to fruition.

Now, in terms of scheme, this is the definitive move that demonstrates the Eagles' intentions to run a 3-4 scheme. Davis has been a 3-4 coach throughout his entire career and will absolutely run that system here. Therefore, pay attention to certain vets that could be elsewhere. For example, Trent Cole.

Cole will make $5.3 million this season and may not want to transition to a 3-4 outside linebacker. There are a few teams that would be willing to add a solid defensive end to their roster and, at 30 years old, Cole still has a few solid years left in him.

For now, we wait for the official confirmation from the Birds—if they actually decide to confirm it publicly—and hope for the best from Davis going forward, even if it might not be good enough.