Posted by Sabrina B. @gametimegirl – Eagles allowed 23.6 ppg to rank 22nd.

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, according to sources.

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 that McDermott would be retained as defensive coordinator.

Within three days after that declaration, sources say Reid informed McDermott that he had changed his mind and would relieve McDermott of his duties after two years as the team’s defensive coordinator.

McDermot 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 McDerrmott’s departure in hopes of allowing him to find another job.

ESPN’s Sal Paolantonio reported in October that McDermott’s authority as defensive coordinator was in jeopardy.

Chris Mortensen is ESPN’s senior NFL analyst.