Officially, it’s a mutual parting. Unofficially, the Eagles have fired V.P. of player personnel Tom Gamble.
Quasi-officially, the Eagles could become the 2015 version of the 49ers.
Geoff Mosher of CSNPhilly.com explains that the development can be construed as a “stern message” to coach Chip Kelly, who had been developing a close relationship with Gamble.
Citing multiple unnamed sources, Mosher writes that tension has developed between Roseman and Kelly, while Kelly and Gamble had grown closer. Mosher also points to Kelly’s end-of-season press-conference comments regarding Roseman and Gamble.
Kelly described his relationship with Roseman simply as “good.” Regarding Gamble, Kelly had much more to say when asked about Gamble as a potential G.M. candidate.
“I think Tom does an outstanding job and if he has the opportunity to do that, then I would support him in anything,” Kelly said. “And if I can give him any help in that situation I would. But he’s a heck of a football guy.”
It’s possible Kelly was propping up a guy that Kelly knew was on the outs. Mosher’s characterization suggests something far more dysfunctional.
Owner Jeffrey Lurie recently said Roseman “absolutely” will be back in 2015, but it tensions exist between coach and G.M. and if leaks commence like they did in 2014 for the 49ers, the relationship could be doomed -- especially if the Eagles miss the playoffs again next season.
