The Philadelphia Eagles’ Secondary Revamp: A Closer Look
Last season, the Philadelphia Eagles' pass defense left much to be desired, ranking among the lowest in the NFL. They allowed a 97.6 passer rating and conceded a staggering 35 passing touchdowns. Recognizing the need for improvement, the Eagles have undertaken a significant overhaul of their secondary ahead of the 2023 season.
Among the key players from last season's secondary were cornerbacks Darius Slay and James Bradberry. Darius Slay continues to hold his position, while the future of Bradberry is under intense scrutiny. During the previous season, Bradberry allowed nine passing touchdowns and an 87.9 passer rating, leading to questions about his performance and role moving forward.
At 31 years old, Bradberry has two years remaining on a three-year, $38 million contract signed in 2023. The Eagles are contemplating several options regarding his future, including a potential trade or a post-June 1 cut, the latter of which would result in cap savings for the team. Additionally, there is speculation that Bradberry could be repositioned at safety within Vic Fangio's defensive scheme or compete for the starting cornerback spot opposite Slay.
Emerging Talent: Kelee Ringo and Isaiah Rodgers
Kelee Ringo made a notable impact towards the end of last season. Playing 198 out of 199 defensive snaps during the final four regular-season games, Ringo allowed a mere 40.8 passer rating in coverage and recorded an interception, showcasing his potential as a strong defensive asset for the Eagles.
Isaiah Rodgers, who impressed during the minicamp, is expected to secure a roster spot at cornerback. His performance has solidified his standing as a critical component of the secondary lineup. With both Ringo and Rodgers showing promise, the Eagles' secondary appears to be on a path to significant improvement.
Recent Draft Picks: Quinyon Mitchell and Cooper DeJean
The Eagles' front office has also been active in the draft, bringing in fresh talent to bolster the secondary. Two of their recent acquisitions, Quinyon Mitchell and Cooper DeJean, offer versatility by lining up inside, outside, and in dime packages.
Mitchell is a strong contender for a starting position and could potentially become the first Eagles rookie cornerback to start before Week 5 since Eric Allen in 1988. His remarkable ability to adapt to various defensive schemes makes him a valuable asset for the team.
Meanwhile, DeJean will face off with Avonte Maddox for the slot cornerback role. DeJean’s competitive edge and flexibility in playing multiple positions give him a substantial chance of making a significant impact early in his career.
Position Battles and Special Teams Contributions
Eli Ricks and Josh Jobe are also in the mix, competing for positions within the secondary. Notably, Jobe is recognized for his special teams expertise, which could be his ticket to securing a spot on the roster.
Darius Slay, Quinyon Mitchell, Cooper DeJean, Kelee Ringo, and Isaiah Rodgers are presumed locks for five of the six cornerback slots. This leaves an intense battle for the remaining spot. Tyler Hall, signed in March, is eyeing both a special teams role and a chance to start in the slot. His performance in the upcoming preseason will likely determine his future with the team.
The Philadelphia Eagles’ commitment to revamping their secondary is evident in their strategic decisions and investments in both seasoned players and fresh talent. As the 2023 season approaches, the performances and developments within the secondary will be critical in addressing last season's shortcomings and paving the way for a more formidable defensive unit.