Former Eagles cornerback Asante Samuel criticizes Nick Sirianni after London loss

Former All-Pro cornerback Asante Samuel has publicly criticized Philadelphia Eagles head coach Nick Sirianni after the team suffered a 19-17 defeat to the Jacksonville Jaguars in London, Fox News reported. Speaking on the Say What Needs To Be Said show, Samuel said that Sirianni lost the game for his team by opting against a squib kick late in the fourth quarter. The loss occurred after Philadelphia had taken a lead with eight seconds remaining. [1][3][8][9]

The Eagles had taken the lead following a 48-yard field goal by kicker Jake Elliott, CBS Sports reported. Rather than attempting a squib kick, Philadelphia allowed a live return by Jacksonville return specialist Ameer Abdullah, who ran for 53 yards. That play set up a game-winning 57-yard field goal by Cam Little as time expired, according to Fox News and CBS Sports. [1][3]

Samuel played in the National Football League as a cornerback for the New England Patriots, Philadelphia Eagles, and Atlanta Falcons, twice leading the league in interceptions. Sirianni has served as the head coach of the Philadelphia Eagles since 2021, having previously worked as an offensive coordinator for the Indianapolis Colts. [8][9]

The result leaves both the Eagles and the Washington Commanders facing pressure after clock mismanagement and late-game decisions ruined their chances in week five, CBS Sports reported. Both teams remain locked in an early-season division race in the NFC East. [3]