The Philadelphia Eagles' Secondary Overhaul: Analyzing the Moves and Impacts
Last season, the Philadelphia Eagles' pass defense faced significant challenges. It ranked among the lowest in the NFL, allowing an alarming 97.6 passer rating and conceding 35 passing touchdowns. In response to these struggles, the Eagles have undertaken a comprehensive overhaul of their secondary for the 2023 season.
Stalwarts and Potential Changes
Darius Slay and James Bradberry were pivotal cornerbacks for the team last season. While Slay maintains his role heading into the new season, Bradberry’s future seems uncertain. Bradberry, now 31 years old, allowed nine passing touchdowns and an 87.9 passer rating in coverage last season. He is currently under a three-year, $38 million contract signed in 2023, with two years remaining.
The Eagles are actively exploring multiple options regarding Bradberry. These include a potential trade or a post-June 1 cut, which would result in cap savings for the team. Additionally, there is speculation that Bradberry may be experimented with at the safety position within Vic Fangio's defense, or he could compete for the starting cornerback position opposite Slay.
Emerging Talents and Promising Draft Picks
One notable rising star is Kelee Ringo, who played 198 out of the final 199 defensive snaps in the last four regular-season games. During this period, Ringo demonstrated impressive skills, allowing a mere 40.8 passer rating in coverage and recording an interception.
Isaiah Rodgers also showcased his potential with a strong minicamp performance, solidifying his position as a likely candidate for the roster at cornerback. The Eagles have further bolstered their secondary with recent draft picks Quinyon Mitchell and Cooper DeJean. Both players bring a versatile skill set, capable of lining up inside, outside, and in dime packages.
Mitchell, in particular, stands out as a formidable contender for a starting position. If he secures a starting spot before Week 5, he would become the first Eagles rookie cornerback to achieve this feat since Eric Allen in 1988. Meanwhile, DeJean will be competing with Avonte Maddox for the critical slot cornerback role.
Competition and Depth Building
The competition for positions within the Eagles’ secondary is intense. Eli Ricks and Josh Jobe are both battling for their spots, with Jobe bringing notable value due to his expertise in special teams. Heading into the season, Slay, Mitchell, DeJean, Ringo, and Rodgers are considered locks for five of the six cornerback slots.
The roster depth is further strengthened by Tyler Hall, who was signed in March. Hall is not only vying for a special teams role but is also a contender for the starting slot position.
Strategic Direction Under Vic Fangio
The arrival of defensive coordinator Vic Fangio brings a new strategic direction for the Eagles' defense. Fangio's schemes are known for their complexity and adaptability, often requiring versatile and intelligent cornerback play. His impact could be a game-changer for a secondary that struggled significantly last season.
Experimenting with Bradberry at the safety position reflects Fangio’s innovative approach. Transitioning a veteran cornerback to safety could address some of the vulnerabilities exposed last season while capitalizing on Bradberry’s experience and field vision. However, such adjustments will demand rigorous training camp evaluations to ensure the best possible fit and performance.
Conclusion
The Philadelphia Eagles' secondary is poised for a significant transformation this season. With established veterans like Slay leading the unit, the emergence of promising young talent, and strategic guidance under Vic Fangio, the defensive backfield hopes to shed its past deficiencies and emerge as a more formidable force. As the season progresses, all eyes will be on how these changes materialize on the field, ultimately shaping the Eagles' chances for success.