Eagles promotes QB coach Brian Johnson to OC

He will replace Shane Steichen, the new head coach of the Indianapolis Colts.

The growth of Galen Hurtz under Johnson was evident. Hurts had an MVP-level campaign in 2022, completing 66.5% of his passes for 3,701 yards with 22 touchdowns to six interceptions while rushing for 760 yards and 13 scores, and went 14-1 as a starter during the regular season.

Johnson’s relationship with Hurts dates back to when Hurts was four or five years old when Hurts’ father, Averion, coached Johnson at Baytown (Texas) Robert E. Lee High School. The two have remained tight-lipped over the years, with Johnson even recruiting him to join him in Mississippi when Hurts was dropping out of high school, and later, Florida when Hurts decided to transfer from Alabama.

“The relationship meant a lot and the trust was there automatically,” coach Nick Siriani said after the season. “Brian is great with not just Galen, with everyone. He can adapt and be able to relate to anyone on our list.”

Johnson is expected to call offensive plays, as Station did last year. Sirianni prefers this setup so he can focus on other responsibilities within the game.

Johnson was with the University of Florida before joining the Eagles, first as quarterbacks coach (2018-19) and then as offensive coordinator (2020), where he oversaw the FBS-best offense (378.6 yards per game) while driving three. All-American Picks that year: quarterback Kyle Trask, tight end Kyle Bates and receiver Tunney Cadarius. During his time as quarterbacks coach at Mississippi State (2014-16), he was credited with helping develop Dak Prescott, a first-team All-SEC selection.