Under new coach Chip Kelly, who used a base 3-4 formation instead of Reid's 4-3 defense, Cole transitioned from right defensive end to right outside linebacker. Cole's performance improved and he became one of the team's most dominant defenders. Cole led the team in sacks (8.0) and forced fumbles (3), while also recording 56 combined tackles, 3 pass deflections, and his first career safety. He added 5 tackles, 1 pass deflection, and 1 sack in a 26-24 postseason loss against the New Orleans Saints. This season was followed by another productive year, with 52 tackles and 6.5 sacks in 15 games, although the Eagles missed the playoffs that year.