The Philadelphia Eagles are shifting gears with their pass defense following a lackluster performance last season. With a 97.6 passer rating allowed and conceding 35 passing touchdowns, the Eagles were among the NFL's worst in this department. This season, they have taken decisive steps to rejuvenate their secondary.
Key among last season's cornerbacks were Darius Slay and James Bradberry. While Slay remains a vital part of the team, Bradberry, who allowed nine passing touchdowns with an 87.9 passer rating, faces an uncertain future. At 31, Bradberry carries the weight of a three-year, $38 million contract signed in 2023, with two years remaining.
Options for Bradberry are on the table. The Eagles are contemplating a potential trade or a post-June 1 cut, which would offer much-needed cap savings. There's also talk of experimenting with Bradberry at safety within Vic Fangio's defense. Alternatively, he might compete for the starting cornerback spot opposite Slay.
Kelee Ringo's Emergence
In the latter part of last season, Kelee Ringo showcased his capabilities by playing 198 out of 199 defensive snaps during the final four regular-season games. His performance was stellar, allowing a mere 40.8 passer rating in coverage and registering an interception. Ringo's development places him as a top contender for the starting lineup.
New Additions and Rising Stars
The Eagles have bolstered their secondary depth through the draft, securing versatile talents like Quinyon Mitchell and Cooper DeJean. Both rookies have demonstrated the ability to line up in multiple positions, including inside, outside, and in dime packages. Mitchell, in particular, is a strong contender for a starting position and could make history by becoming the first Eagles rookie cornerback to start before Week 5 since Eric Allen in 1988.
Cooper DeJean is set to compete with Avonte Maddox for the slot cornerback role. Meanwhile, Isaiah Rodgers, who had a strong minicamp, seems poised to secure a roster spot at cornerback. Eli Ricks and Josh Jobe are also battling for positions, with Jobe's special teams expertise giving him an edge.
Darius Slay, Quinyon Mitchell, Cooper DeJean, Kelee Ringo, and Isaiah Rodgers are presumed locks for five of the six cornerback slots. This leaves Tyler Hall, who was signed in March, vying for both a special teams role and a chance to start in the slot.
Strategic Overhaul
This off-season's strategic overhaul underscores the Eagles' determination to transform their pass defense. The mix of seasoned players like Slay and Bradberry, combined with emerging talents such as Ringo, Mitchell, and DeJean, reflects an orchestrated effort to fortify the secondary.
Overall, the Eagles' proactive approach signals a commitment to addressing last season's vulnerabilities, ensuring that their secondary not only improves but competes at a higher echelon in the NFL this season.