The Philadelphia Eagles, aiming to bolster their pass defense after a challenging season, have made significant changes to their secondary for the 2023 campaign. Last season, the Eagles' pass defense was among the NFL's worst, allowing a disheartening 97.6 passer rating and conceding 35 passing touchdowns. Recognizing the need for improvement, the team has undertaken a major overhaul of its defensive backfield.
Darius Slay, a cornerstone of last season’s secondary, continues his role, bringing experience and stability. His counterpart from last year, James Bradberry, who permitted nine passing touchdowns and an 87.9 passer rating, finds himself at a crossroads. At 31 years old, Bradberry still has two years remaining on the three-year, $38 million contract he inked in 2023. However, the Eagles are considering all options regarding his future with the team, including a potential trade or a post-June 1 cut, which would offer significant cap savings.
Despite the uncertainties, there is contemplation within the Eagles’ camp about possibly leveraging Bradberry’s skills in a different capacity. There is speculation that he might be tested at safety within Vic Fangio's defensive system, or he might vie for the starting cornerback position opposite Slay.
The Eagles' overhaul isn't solely about shuffling veterans; they've also infused fresh talent. Kelee Ringo, who played nearly every defensive snap during the last four regular-season games, showcased his skills impressively, allowing a mere 40.8 passer rating and securing an interception. His performance positions him as a strong contender for a prominent role in the upcoming season.
Additionally, Isaiah Rodgers has capitalized on his opportunities, delivering a strong performance during minicamp. His efforts have not gone unnoticed, and he is anticipated to secure a roster spot at cornerback.
Emerging Talent
The Eagles have further strengthened their secondary through the draft, acquiring Quinyon Mitchell and Cooper DeJean. Both players bring versatility, being adept at playing inside, outside, and in dime packages. Mitchell, in particular, has emerged as a frontrunner for a starting role. Should he succeed, he would be the first Eagles rookie cornerback to start before Week 5 since Eric Allen’s debut in 1988.
Cooper DeJean is set to compete with Avonte Maddox for the slot cornerback role, adding depth to the Eagles' defensive plans. This competition is expected to be one of the key narratives during training camp.
Special Teams and Depth
Eli Ricks and Josh Jobe are also battling for positions within the secondary. Jobe's proficiency on special teams adds an extra layer of value to his candidacy. Meanwhile, Darius Slay, Quinyon Mitchell, Cooper DeJean, Kelee Ringo, and Isaiah Rodgers are presumed to be locks for five of the six coveted cornerback slots.
The special teams unit will also see competition, with Tyler Hall, signed in March, vying for a role. Hall's aspirations are not limited to special teams alone; he has his sights set on securing a starting position in the slot, further intensifying the roster battles.
As the 2023 season approaches, the reimagined Philadelphia Eagles secondary is poised to turn the tide on their previous struggles. With a blend of seasoned veterans and promising young talent, the Eagles aim to shore up their pass defense and make a formidable impression in the upcoming campaign. The success of their strategy hinges on these intricate moves and the performance of their restructured roster, promising an intriguing season for both the team and its supporters.