NFL Week 7 Analysis: Eagles' Offensive Concerns, Titans' Coaching Search, and 49ers' Trade Deadline Outlook
As the NFL season reaches Week 7, several key storylines are emerging that could shape the playoff landscape. The defending champion Eagles are facing offensive struggles reminiscent of their 2023 collapse, while the Titans have fired head coach Brian Callahan after just 23 games. Meanwhile, the injury-riddled 49ers are exploring trade options to bolster their defense ahead of the November 4 deadline. This analysis examines the latest developments around the league, including potential running back trades and team strategies heading into the second half of the season.
The NFL season has reached a critical juncture in Week 7, with several teams facing pivotal decisions that could define their 2025 campaigns. From the defending champion Eagles' offensive struggles to the Titans' coaching change and the 49ers' injury woes, teams across the league are evaluating their positions ahead of the November 4 trade deadline.
Philadelphia Eagles' Offensive Concerns
The Eagles find themselves at a crossroads after dropping two consecutive games, with their offense showing concerning similarities to their 2023 late-season collapse. Despite holding a 4-2 record, players within the organization have expressed worry about the team's direction. Right tackle Lane Johnson publicly stated that the offense feels predictable, echoing concerns from within the locker room.
The core issue appears to be the running game's inability to replicate last season's dominance. While Saquon Barkley remains one of the NFL's elite running backs, the offensive line isn't creating the same running lanes that propelled the Eagles to their Super Bowl victory. Injuries and the departure of Mekhi Becton to the Chargers have contributed to the line's regression.
Titans' Coaching Change Aftermath
The Titans made the surprising decision to fire head coach Brian Callahan after just 23 games, marking the fourth head coach or general manager dismissal in the past 34 months for the organization. The timing raises questions about the franchise's long-term planning, particularly with rookie quarterback Cam Ward's development now in flux.
Industry sources suggest the Titans may use this opportunity to conduct a comprehensive reset under president of football operations Chad Brinker and general manager Mike Borgonzi. The team is expected to be active at the trade deadline, with players like edge rusher Arden Key, cornerback Roger McCreary, and tight end Chig Okonkwo potentially available for trade as the Titans look to accumulate draft capital for their rebuild.
49ers' Trade Deadline Strategy
San Francisco faces significant defensive challenges following injuries to key players, including linebacker Fred Warner (ankle) and defensive end Nick Bosa (torn ACL). The 49ers have been actively scanning the trade market for pass-rush help, with Cincinnati's Trey Hendrickson identified as an ideal fit, though the Bengals currently have no plans to move him.
Other potential targets include edge rushers Rashan Gary (Packers), Jaelan Phillips (Dolphins), Bradley Chubb (Dolphins), and Arden Key (Titans). The 49ers may also explore linebacker options like the Jets' Quincy Williams, who has history with defensive coordinator Robert Saleh, or Houston's Christian Harris. Despite their 4-2 record, San Francisco must balance their win-now aspirations with preserving draft assets for future development.
Running Back Trade Market
The trade deadline could see significant movement at the running back position, with several notable names potentially available. The Jets' Breece Hall emerges as a prime candidate, given his contract situation and New York's 0-6 record. Other backs who could be moved include Cleveland's Jerome Ford, Miami's Jaylen Wright, and the Giants' Devin Singletary.
Teams expected to be in the market for running back help include the Chiefs, Texans, Chargers, and Patriots. The evolving running back market reflects both teams looking to acquire assets for rebuilding efforts and contenders seeking to bolster their backfields for playoff pushes.
League-Wide Developments
Several other teams face critical decisions in the coming weeks. The Ravens, sitting at 1-5, have already been active in the trade market and could make additional moves if their struggles continue. The Jets are expected to receive significant interest for players like pass rushers Will McDonald IV and Jermaine Johnson as teams look to acquire talent from the winless squad.
Meanwhile, the Chiefs are preparing to reintegrate suspended receiver Rashee Rice into their offense, while the Panthers face decisions about their running back rotation following Rico Dowdle's breakout performances. As teams approach the midpoint of the season, the trade deadline looms as a pivotal moment that could reshape playoff races across both conferences.
The NFL landscape continues to evolve rapidly, with Week 7 serving as a crucial evaluation point for teams assessing their playoff chances and long-term direction. From coaching changes to trade possibilities, the decisions made in the coming weeks will have lasting implications for the 2025 season and beyond.
