The Eagles have spent a month losing games, starters, and the stability that once made another postseason run seem attainable. Their next three games will help determine how much of this season remains worth chasing.
Philadelphia hosts Dallas on Monday night, then travels to Washington before returning home to face the Giants. Three consecutive NFC East matchups precede the Week 10 bye, giving the Eagles an opportunity to repair their position before the season moves deeper into November.
The standings have kept that opportunity available. Philadelphia and Dallas are 2-4, behind the 3-2-1 Giants, with Washington fourth at 1-4-1. But remaining close in the division means little if Philadelphia cannot fix the offensive problems that have followed it through four consecutive losses.
Tanner McKee’s first start of the season produced encouraging throws against Carolina, including a touchdown to DeVonta Smith, but the Eagles managed only 14 points. With Jalen Hurts expected to miss the remainder of the season, Philadelphia needs a sustainable offensive plan around its available quarterbacks.
Joe Milton’s arrival gives the Eagles another player to develop and evaluate. It also creates a legitimate question about whether his mobility could eventually help an offense struggling to protect its quarterback and establish the run. His presence alone, however, does not signal an imminent starting change.
Monday’s result also could influence how Philadelphia approaches the trade deadline. Another loss would strengthen the argument for prioritizing future value and evaluating younger players. A win would preserve a stronger case for pursuing the division.
The Eagles do not have to decide their entire direction before facing Dallas. They do need to show enough improvement to make that decision more difficult.
This article originally appeared on Eagles Wire: Eagles-Cowboys begins three-game stretch that could reshape the season