ESPN Ranks Philadelphia Eagles Middle of the Pack in 2026 NFL Watchability Index

How watchable will the Philadelphia Eagles be this season?

With a top-flight defense and a brand-new style of offense, they will certainly be interesting.

According to ESPN analyst Ben Solak and his watchability rankings for 2026, the Eagles are right in the middle of the pack. 

Using four key categories — big plays, competitive games, star players, and nothing offensive — Solak has the Eagles ranked 15th of 32. 

Why ESPN Ranks the Eagles 15th in Watchability

He notes that while they have some star playmakers on the defensive side of the ball, there will still likely be a few terse sideline conversations on the offensive side.

When have the Nick Sirianni-led Eagles not been dramatic? When they're good, running back Saquon Barkley has score-from-anywhere potential. Quarterback Jalen Hurts has a beautiful deep ball along the sideline, and receiver DeVonta Smith is a more-than-capable beneficiary of A.J. Brown's departure. The defense is also studded with star playmakers -- Jalen Carter, Quinyon Mitchell, Cooper DeJean and Zack Baun.

It will be interesting to see how much of a step Smith can make as the No. 1 wide receiver and if Barkley can get back to being the elite level back he was in the Eagles Super Bowl season when he rushed for over 2,000 yards.

All eyes will always be on Hurts, especially in this new offense, which many wonder if he is the right fit for.

As for what could make them more watchable? Solak says fans can still expect some Big Dom moments on the sidelines, which could lead to plenty of reaction on the Sports Bash on Mondays.

When they're bad? Still watchable. Incessant three-and-outs can be boring, but sideline drama never is. Brown's departure might limit some of the eye-in-the-sky sideline shots we get during broadcasts, but we should still get a few terse sideline conversations between Sirianni and Hurts while Big Dom looms in the background ominously. I'm guessing the new offense under coordinator Sean Mannion gives us a few of these moments, which will be good for internet reactions and Monday morning talk shows at the very least.

Can Sean Mannion’s Scheme Boost Philadelphia’s Excitement Level?

Are the Eagles the most exciting team in the league?  Not really, but they always have Super Bowl expectations.  Having a new offensive coordinator for Hurts and installing a completely new style of offense will make them a must-watch on that side of the ball.

Meanwhile, Vic Fangio might have his best defensive unit since coming to Philadelphia, which will make them a must-see defense. Watching the edge rushers, coupled with Jalen Carter, Jordan Davis in the middle, and a very good secondary, should make for some exciting Sundays.