The Philadelphia Eagles are setting the stage for an intriguing defensive resurgence in the 2023 NFL season. Following a bleak 2022 season where their pass defense ranked among the lowest in the league, conceding a 97.6 passer rating and 35 passing touchdowns, the Eagles have undertaken an extensive overhaul of their secondary.
Key veteran cornerbacks Darius Slay and James Bradberry were instrumental in last season’s lineup, with Slay maintaining his vital role. However, Bradberry's performance, which included allowing nine passing touchdowns and an 87.9 passer rating, has prompted the Eagles' management to reevaluate his future contributions to the team. Now at 31, Bradberry has two years left on the three-year, $38 million contract he inked in 2023. The Eagles are exploring various options for Bradberry’s future, including a potential trade or a cut post-June 1 that would yield valuable cap savings.
In an unexpected twist, Bradberry might see a shift in his position within Vic Fangio’s defensive scheme. The coaching staff is weighing the possibility of experimenting with him at safety or allowing him to compete for the starting cornerback spot opposite Darius Slay. This strategic alteration speaks to the Eagles’ adaptive approach as they strive to bolster their defensive lineup.
Youthful Infusion in the Secondary
Complementing the veteran presence are young and promising talents such as Kelee Ringo, who showcased significant potential in the closing stretch of the last regular season. Ringo played 198 out of 199 defensive snaps during the final four games, allowing a modest 40.8 passer rating in coverage and securing an interception. His emergence has undoubtedly earned the coaching staff’s trust.
Further fortifying the secondary are Isaiah Rodgers, who impressed during minicamp and looks poised to secure a roster spot, and recent draft picks Quinyon Mitchell and Cooper DeJean. Mitchell and DeJean bring versatility to the table, demonstrating their ability to line up inside, outside, and in dime packages. Mitchell, in particular, is a strong contender for a starting position and could make history by being the first Eagles rookie cornerback to start before Week 5 since Eric Allen in 1988.
Position Battles and Special Teams Dynamics
The internal competition doesn’t end there. Cooper DeJean is set to challenge Avonte Maddox for the slot cornerback role, adding another layer of depth to the squad. Meanwhile, Eli Ricks and Josh Jobe are battling for roster spots, with Jobe’s prowess on special teams giving him a potential edge.
Darius Slay, Quinyon Mitchell, Cooper DeJean, Kelee Ringo, and Isaiah Rodgers are presumed locks for the primary cornerback slots. However, Tyler Hall, a March signee, is also in the mix, vying for both a special teams role and potentially a starting position in the slot.
This array of talent, both seasoned and burgeoning, underscores the Eagles’ commitment to revitalizing their defense. With Slay as the seasoned cornerstone and an influx of young talent, the team is clearly prioritizing versatility, competition, and depth in their secondary strategy.
Strategic Implications for the Season
The revamp of the Eagles’ secondary is one of many steps the organization is taking to ensure they don’t replicate the defensive frailties of last season. By integrating rookies who have demonstrated promise and leveraging the versatility of their defensive backs, the Eagles are positioning themselves for a more formidable 2023 campaign.
As the preseason progresses, it will be fascinating to observe how these strategic decisions play out on the field and whether the Eagles’ secondary can elevate its performance to meet the aspirations of the team's front office and fans alike. The blend of seasoned veterans and youthful vigor could well be the concoction that transforms their defensive record and propels the Eagles back into contention.