Less than a week after Philadelphia Eagles head coach Andy Reid said that defensive coordinator Sean McDermott would return in 2011, the Eagles have fired McDermott.
A team spokesman confirmed the firing Saturday, which was first reported by ESPN. No replacement has been announced.
McDermott, 36, came under heavy criticism in a season in which the Eagles allowed a franchise-high 31 touchdown passes and had the worst red-zone defense in the NFL. However, Reid said in a season-ending news conference McDermott would be retained.
Within three days of that declaration, sources say Reid informed McDermott he had changed his mind and would relieve McDermott of his duties after two years as the team's defensive coordinator.
McDermott replaced the legendary Jim Johnson, who died of cancer in 2009. He adapted Johnson's aggressive style of defense but injuries to key veterans forced McDermott to adjust his scheme in 2010. The Eagles allowed at least 24 points in 11 games this season.
The Eagles have not made a public announcement regarding McDermott's departure in hopes of allowing him to find another job.
ESPN's Sal Paolantonio reported in October McDermott's authority as defensive coordinator was in jeopardy.
The Eagles won the NFC East with a 10-6 record before losing to the The Eagles won the NFC East with a 10-6 record before losing to the Green Bay Packers 21-16 in a first-round playoff game last week. 21-16 in a first-round playoff game last week.
Chris Mortensen is ESPN's senior NFL analyst. Information from The Associated Press contributed to this report.