Future Coach? The Eagles’ DB Who Is Getting Pushed In That Direction

Eagles safeties coach Joe Kasper believes coaching is a part of Avonte Maddox's future.
Philadelphia Eagles cornerback Avonte Maddox.
Philadelphia Eagles cornerback Avonte Maddox. / Eric Canha-Imagn Images
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NEW ORLEANS - It’s been a special year in the secondary for the Philadelphia Eagles, according to safeties coach Joe Kasper.

However, one player who gets overlooked is versatile seven-year Avonte Maddox, who lost his nickel job to star rookie Cooper DeJean during the Eagles’ Week 5 bye.

Forgotten by most, Maddox is still valued by the coaching staff.

“There are not too many defensive backs that can do what Avonte does,” safeties coach Joe Kapser told Philadelphia Eagles On SI. “Play nickel, play dime, play safety. That’s really special and he’s like the next defensive backs coach too so it’s been a really fun year.”

Next defensive backs coach?

“I hope so,” Kasper said. “You know I keep pushing him.”

However, Maddox will turn 29 in March and Kasper understands there is more gas left in the tank when it comes to a playing career for the Pitt product.

“He’s in play now mode which is cool and he’s gotta be that way because he’s got some years left especially because he’s so smart,” Kasper said. “He’s able to do a few different jobs and he can play on [special] teams. 

“He could play for a lot longer but I do see coaching in his future.”

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John McMullen
JOHN MCMULLEN

John McMullen is a veteran reporter who has covered the NFL for over two decades. The current NFL insider for JAKIB Media, John is the former NFL Editor for The Sports Network where his syndicated column was featured in over 200 outlets including the Los Angeles Times, Chicago Tribune, and Miami Herald. He was also the national NFL columnist for Today's Pigskin as well as FanRag Sports. McMullen has covered the Eagles on a daily basis since 2016, first for ESPN South Jersey and now for Eagles Today on SI.com's FanNation. You can listen to John, alongside legendary sports-talk host Jody McDonald every morning from 8-10 on ‘Birds 365,” streaming live on YouTube.com. John is also the host of his own show "Extending the Play" on AM1490 in South Jersey and part of 6ABC.com's live postgame show after every Eagles game. You can reach him at jmcmullen44@gmail.com or on Twitter @JFMcMullen