Kansas City Chiefs head coach Andy Reid and long-time Philadelphia Eagles offensive line coach Jeff Stoutland's paths never crossed, since the former left the City of Brotherly Love in 2013, just before the latter's career in Philly began.
Perhaps they could finally pair up in the Kingdom this offseason, in the wake of recent developments in the Birds organization.
Per the NFL Network's Ian Rapoport, "For the first time in years, the Eagles will have a new OL coach. Jeff Stoutland, one of the NFL’s most respected O-line gurus, won’t be coaching but will stay around the organization. OC Sean Mannion will bring in his own people."
As ESPN's Tim McManus reported, Stoutland was being forced out the door long before Mannion joined the organization, mentioning how changes that head coach Nick Sirianni and ex-offensive coordinator Kevin Patulo were made without the 63-year-old's consultation.
"Stoutland was not consulted about the changes to what he felt was an appropriate degree, a league source said, to the point where he no longer desired the title of run game coordinator because he felt it no longer fit his job description."Tim McManus, ESPN
Stoutland clearly takes pride in his work and feels he still has something to contribute, given that he didn't take that sitting down. Clearly, Stoutland still has something left to give to professional football.
Jeff Stoutland Still Has Something to Give, and Chiefs Can Use It
Opportunity is knocking. Reid has to answer, given the uncertainty at the coaching staff's offensive line spot heading into the 2026 season.
Andy Heck, the incumbent OL coach, could enter retirement this offseason. If that happens, there's a proven entity on the market with championship experience under two different head coaches, providing a run game that saw perfect symmetry between running back Saquon Barkley and Jalen Hurts in recent seasons, particularly 2024.
Stoutland worked with Jason Kelce, Lane Johnson, Jason Peters, and Landon Dickerson during his 12-year career in Philadelphia. That resume speaks for itself. There are several Hall of Fame talents in that bunch, and his impact could help take young Chiefs linemen — like Esa Pole, Josh Simmons, and Jaylon Moore — to the next level.
If new offensive coordinator Eric Bieniemy is on board, there's an opportunity to beautifully set up the pass with an effective, overhauled run game. Patrick Mahomes could use that as his career winds down, especially as he comes off a significant injury.
The Chiefs could use a slam-dunk, feel-good hire after the way the 2025 season unfolded. Stoutland would be that hire, putting pressure on Reid and general manager Brett Veach to find a way to lure him to Kansas City before the offseason is over.