The Philadelphia Eagles' Secondary Overhaul: A Closer Look
Last season, the Philadelphia Eagles' pass defense was ranked among the lowest in the NFL, allowing a 97.6 passer rating and conceding 35 passing touchdowns. To address these deficiencies, the Eagles have overhauled their secondary for the 2023 season.
Cornerbacks Darius Slay and James Bradberry were key players last season. While Slay remains a key figure in the secondary, Bradberry's future with the team is uncertain. Though Bradberry allowed nine passing touchdowns and posted an 87.9 passer rating last season, his experience and versatility make him a valuable asset. At 31 years old and entering the second year of a three-year, $38 million contract, the Eagles are considering various options for Bradberry, including a potential trade or a post-June 1 cut. Such a move would result in cap savings for the team.
Another consideration is experimenting with Bradberry at safety within Vic Fangio's defensive scheme or having him compete for the starting cornerback role opposite Slay. The secondary rebuild also includes promising young talents, such as Kelee Ringo, who played 198 out of 199 defensive snaps during the final four regular-season games last season. Ringo allowed a measly 40.8 passer rating in coverage and even snagged an interception during this period.
New Acquisitions and Young Talents
Among the newcomers, Isaiah Rodgers has caught the eye with a strong performance during minicamp. Expected to secure a roster spot at cornerback, Rodgers' addition adds depth and competition to the secondary.
The Eagles' recent draft picks, Quinyon Mitchell and Cooper DeJean, further highlight their commitment to revamping the secondary. Both players are known for their versatility, capable of lining up inside, outside, and in dime packages. Mitchell stands out as 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. DeJean, on the other hand, will compete with Avonte Maddox for the slot cornerback role, adding another layer of competitiveness to the roster.
Competition in the Cornerback Room
As the Eagles shape their roster, the cornerback room is bustling with competition. Eli Ricks and Josh Jobe are battling for positions, with Jobe particularly noted for his special teams expertise. Darius Slay, Quinyon Mitchell, Cooper DeJean, Kelee Ringo, and Isaiah Rodgers are presumed locks for five of the six available cornerback slots, intensifying the competition among the remaining hopefuls.
March signee Tyler Hall is also vying not only for a special teams role but for a chance to start in the slot, showcasing the depth and options the Eagles have heading into the new season.
With a renewed focus on strengthening their pass defense, the Philadelphia Eagles are making bold moves to ensure they improve on last season's shortcomings. The integration of both seasoned veterans and promising young talents suggests the secondary will be a unit to watch closely in the 2023 season.