Early Birds: Offseason introduction

BIGGEST NEEDS

Coaching: No personnel decision can be made until the Eagles have a decision about the coaching staff. The head coach hire will get the most attention, but the coordinators - and the schemes - will play a big factor in who is on the 2016 roster.

Quarterback: Once the coach is determined, there could be more clarity about what the Eagles will do with Sam Bradford. The former No. 1 pick will be in demand, so the decision is up to him, too. The Eagles could try to bring Bradford back, acquire a quarterback from another team, or draft one in April.

Offensive line: The Eagles didn't address the offensive line during the past two drafts. The starters were inconsistent in 2015, and they lacked depth across the line. Look for the Eagles to make the line a priority this year, with the interior a particular emphasis.

Pass rush: Whether the Eagles play a 3-4 defense or a 4-3, they can use more of an edge rush. Connor Barwin and Brandon Graham didn't have much help behind them on the depth chart. A young, dynamic pass rusher could be a major help to the defense. The team this season had 37 sacks, which ranked No. 17 in the NFL.

Wide receiver: After investing a first-round pick, second-rounder, and third-rounder in the position during the past two seasons, the Eagles need their young receivers to step up in 2016. Seeing DeSean Jackson and Jeremy Maclin in the playoffs is a reminder of what once was for this offense.

KEY FREE AGENTS

Sam Bradford: This is the biggest personnel decision of the Eagles' offseason. If the Eagles want Bradford and Bradford wants to stay in Philadelphia, the contract is going to be expensive -- but it would give the Eagles some much-needed security at quarterback.

Vinny Curry: Curry fits best as a pass rusher in a 4-3 defense, so the next defensive scheme matters with this decision. The Eagles invested a 2012 second-round pick in Curry, and he has shown pass-rushing ability (9 sacks in 2014) when given the opportunity.

Walter Thurmond: After moving from cornerback to safety in the spring, Thurmond played 16 games and was productive in his new role. He spent the past two seasons on one-year deals, but Thurmond could be in line for a more lucrative deal this offseason.

Cedric Thornton: Thornton progressed from practice squad to reserve to starter for the Eagles. He spent five years with the organization, including the last three as a defensive end. The defensive scheme could determine what the Eagles do along the line.

Nolan Carroll: Carroll's season ended on Thanksgiving because of a broken ankle. Before the injury, he was a favorite of the coaching staff for the way he improved in his second year with the team. He will be 29 in January, but he has starting experience in two places, can play multiple spots, and can contribute on special teams.

YOUNG PLAYERS WHO COULD PLAY BIGGER ROLES 

Nelson Agholor, WR: The Eagles need more from their 2015 first-round pick, who caught only 23 passes for 283 yards and one touchdown. A high-ankle sprain slowed him during the middle of the season, and Year No. 2 could be better.

Eric Rowe, CB: Rowe stepped into the starting lineup after Carroll's injury, and that job might be his going forward. Rowe, who is 6-foot-1 and 205 pounds, has ideal size and is still learning the position after spending most of his college career at safety.

Jordan Hicks, LB: Perhaps the biggest surprise of the Eagles, Hicks excelled in five starts before suffering a torn pectoral injury in Week 9. He could become a permanent starter next season.

Marcus Smith, LB: Entering his third season, Smith might need to play his way onto the roster. The 2014 first-round pick has been a disappointment, but a new coach could signal a new opportunity. His 1.5 career sacks came in the final three games this year.

Ed Reynolds, S: If Thurmond leaves in free agency, the Eagles will need a starter at safety. Reynolds, who didn't make the team out of training camp during the past two summers, impressed with a larger role late in the season.