The Philadelphia Eagles are heading into the 2023 season with a dramatically revamped secondary, hoping to address the glaring issues that plagued their pass defense last season. The team allowed a league-worst 35 passing touchdowns and a passer rating of 97.6, necessitating significant changes.
Despite the overhaul, one familiar face remains in the Eagles' backfield—Darius Slay, who was a key cornerback last season. Slay’s partner, James Bradberry, who accounted for nine passing touchdowns allowed and an 87.9 passer rating, is at the center of much speculation this offseason. At 31 years old, Bradberry's future with the team is uncertain. The Eagles are weighing their options, including a potential trade or a post-June 1 cut, which would provide salary cap relief.
Interestingly, the coaching staff may also consider repositioning Bradberry within Vic Fangio's defense, possibly experimenting with him at safety or having him compete for the starting cornerback position opposite Slay.
A Youth Movement in the Secondary
Among the young talents vying for positions, Kelee Ringo stands out. Playing 198 of 199 defensive snaps in the final four regular-season games of last year, Ringo exhibited impressive skills. He allowed a mere 40.8 passer rating in coverage and even secured an interception, making a strong case for a more prominent role.
Joining this youthful charge are recent draft picks Quinyon Mitchell and Cooper DeJean. Both players bring versatility to the table, with the ability to line up inside, outside, and in dime packages. Mitchell, in particular, is a strong contender for a starting position. If he earns a starting role before Week 5, he would be the first Eagles rookie cornerback to do so since Eric Allen in 1988.
Competition Heats Up
The competition for cornerback slots is fierce. Besides the aforementioned players, Isaiah Rodgers, who had a stellar minicamp, is also expected to secure a roster spot. For the slot cornerback role, Cooper DeJean will be competing with Avonte Maddox, while Eli Ricks and Josh Jobe are battling for positions, with Jobe's special teams expertise likely giving him an edge.
The Eagles have essentially locked in five of the six cornerback slots with Darius Slay, Quinyon Mitchell, Cooper DeJean, Kelee Ringo, and Isaiah Rodgers poised to fill these positions. Signed in March, Tyler Hall is also in contention for a slot cornerback role and a special teams position.
Strategic Decisions Await
The Eagles’ defensive coaching staff faces a series of crucial decisions that will shape the team's performance in the coming season. The balance between veteran experience and youthful exuberance will be critical. Whether Bradberry will continue in his role, transition to a different position, or exit the team will have significant implications not just for the secondary, but for the team's cap flexibility as well.
As the team moves closer to the start of the season, all eyes will be on how these potential shifts impact the overall defensive strategy. With the influx of promising young talent, the Eagles are aiming to establish a more formidable pass defense, addressing last season’s vulnerabilities.
Only time will tell how these strategic decisions play out, but the steps taken by the Eagles this offseason underscore a clear commitment to transforming one of the team's weakest links into a potential strength. The upcoming training camp and preseason games will provide more clarity, as fans and analysts alike eagerly watch the developments in this critical area of the Eagles' roster.