Last season, the Philadelphia Eagles' pass defense found itself at the bottom of the NFL rankings, allowing a 97.6 passer rating and conceding 35 passing touchdowns. In response, the Eagles have dramatically revamped their secondary for the 2023 season, aiming for a significant turnaround.
The cornerback duo of Darius Slay and James Bradberry were pivotal last season. Slay retains his role, but Bradberry's future with the team seems uncertain. At 31 years old and with two years left on his $38 million contract signed in 2023, Bradberry has allowed nine passing touchdowns and an 87.9 passer rating last season. The Eagles are weighing their options, including exploring potential trades or even cutting him post-June 1, which would result in cap savings.
Given Vic Fangio's defensive scheme, Bradberry could find himself transitioning to a safety role or competing for the starting cornerback spot opposite Slay. This flexibility in usage could determine his value to the team moving forward.
Promising Young Talent
Kelee Ringo emerged as a notable rookie last season, playing 198 out of 199 defensive snaps during the final four regular-season games. He allowed an impressive 40.8 passer rating in coverage and notched an interception, signaling his potential as a formidable player in the secondary.
Isaiah Rodgers, another bright spot, performed strongly in minicamp and is anticipated to secure a roster spot at cornerback. The Eagles also invested in new draft picks, Quinyon Mitchell and Cooper DeJean, both of whom bring versatility to the defense. They've shown the ability to line up inside, outside, and in dime packages.
Mitchell stands out as a strong contender for a starting position and may become the first Eagles rookie cornerback to start before Week 5 since Eric Allen in 1988, highlighting the team's confidence in his capabilities. Meanwhile, DeJean will compete with Avonte Maddox for the slot cornerback role, emphasizing the depth and competition within the squad.
Special Teams and Depth Players
Beyond the starting lineup, depth and special teams play a vital role in the Eagles' strategy. Eli Ricks and Josh Jobe are in contention for positions, with Jobe particularly noted for his expertise on special teams. Players like Jobe and Ricks contribute significantly to the overall team dynamics, providing essential support beyond the high-profile starters.
Darius Slay, Quinyon Mitchell, Cooper DeJean, Kelee Ringo, and Isaiah Rodgers are expected to lock in five of the six cornerback slots, underscoring the coaching staff's faith in their abilities. Tyler Hall, who was signed in March, is also aiming to make an impact. He is contending for both a special teams role and a potential starting slot position, adding further competition and depth to the team.
Looking Ahead
As the Eagles aim to improve their defensive standings, the overhauled secondary will be crucial. The mix of seasoned veterans and promising new talent offers a balanced approach to formidable pass defenses. Darius Slay's leadership and the potential emergence of rookies like Quinyon Mitchell could provide the boost needed for Philadelphia's defense. Meanwhile, strategic decisions regarding James Bradberry's role will be pivotal in optimizing the secondary's performance. The upcoming season presents an opportunity for the Eagles to redefine their defensive identity and demonstrate significant improvement.