The Philadelphia Eagles have undergone a significant transformation in their secondary ahead of the 2023 NFL season. Last season, the Eagles' pass defense was among the worst in the league, allowing a 97.6 passer rating and conceding 35 passing touchdowns. In response, the Eagles have made several notable changes to their defensive backfield to bolster their performance.
One of the key moves involves the potential repositioning of James Bradberry. Bradberry, who allowed nine passing touchdowns and an 87.9 passer rating last season, remains a critical piece of the defensive puzzle at 31 years old. He is entering the second year of a three-year, $38 million contract. The Eagles are currently weighing their options with Bradberry, including the possibility of trading him or designating him as a post-June 1 cut, a move that would result in cap savings for the team. There is also speculation that Bradberry might transition to safety under Vic Fangio’s defensive scheme, or he may compete to retain his starting cornerback spot opposite Darius Slay.
Speaking of Slay, the veteran cornerback continues to hold his position as a cornerstone in the Eagles' secondary. Last season, Slay and Bradberry were pivotal players, despite the overall struggles of the unit. This upcoming season, Slay will play a critical role in shaping the new-look secondary and mentoring the incoming talent.
Kelee Ringo's Emergence
Kelee Ringo, who stepped up significantly during the final four regular-season games of last season, is poised to have an impactful role in the 2023 season. Ringo played 198 out of 199 defensive snaps during those final games, allowing a mere 40.8 passer rating in coverage and recording an interception. His performance has positioned him as a key player to watch as he seeks to solidify his spot in the secondary.
Draft Picks and Position Battles
The Eagles also bolstered their secondary through the draft, selecting Quinyon Mitchell and Cooper DeJean, both known for their versatility. Mitchell, in particular, is a strong contender for a starting position and could make history as the first Eagles rookie cornerback to start before Week 5 since Eric Allen in 1988. His ability to line up inside, outside, and in dime packages gives the Eagles flexible options in defensive schemes.
DeJean, on the other hand, is in competition with Avonte Maddox for the slot cornerback role. This battle will be one to watch during training camp as both players bring unique skills to the table, potentially enhancing the Eagles' pass coverage across multiple formations.
Depth and Special Teams Concerns
With Darius Slay, Quinyon Mitchell, Cooper DeJean, Kelee Ringo, and Isaiah Rodgers presumed to secure five of the six cornerback slots, the final spot will see fierce competition. Eli Ricks and Josh Jobe are vying for the remaining position, with Jobe noted for his special teams expertise. This aspect of his game may provide him an edge in securing a roster spot.
Another player to watch is Tyler Hall, signed in March, who is contending for a role on special teams and a chance to start in the slot. Hall’s versatility and determination could make him a valuable asset for the Eagles as they look to strengthen their defensive depth and special teams unit.
As the Eagles prepare for the 2023 season, the revamped secondary will be under significant scrutiny. The combination of veteran leadership, emerging young talent, and strategic depth changes could prove to be a winning formula for a defense that aims to rebound from a disappointing performance last year.
The experimentation with player positions, intense competition for roster spots, and strategic financial decisions regarding contracts highlight an offseason focused on creating a formidable pass defense. With these changes, the Eagles hope to nullify the shortcomings of the previous year and emerge as a dominant force in the NFL once again.