As the Philadelphia Eagles gear up for the 2023 NFL season, the team has undertaken significant changes to address one of their most glaring weaknesses from last year: pass defense. Ranked among the lowest in the league, the Eagles allowed a 97.6 passer rating and surrendered 35 passing touchdowns, prompting a thorough overhaul of their secondary.
Darius Slay continues to be a cornerstone of the Eagles' secondary. Last season, Slay's consistency earned him his spot, and he remains a critical player as the Eagles rebuild around him. His counterpart from last season, James Bradberry, emerges as a focal point in the Eagles' strategic reconfiguration.
Bradberry, at 31, had a challenging season, allowing nine passing touchdowns and an 87.9 passer rating. The cornerback, currently in the midst of a three-year, $38 million contract signed in 2023, has two years remaining on his deal. Given his performance and age, the Eagles are actively exploring their options, including a potential trade or a post-June 1 cut. A post-June 1 cut would offer cap savings, providing the team with some financial flexibility.
While Bradberry's future with the team remains uncertain, another possibility being considered is his transition to the safety position within Vic Fangio's defense. Alternatively, Bradberry might compete for the starting cornerback role opposite Slay, giving the Eagles a veteran presence alongside their emerging talents.
One such talent is Kelee Ringo, who demonstrated significant potential during the final stretch of last season. Playing 198 out of 199 defensive snaps in the last four regular-season games, he delivered an impressive performance, allowing just a 40.8 passer rating in coverage and recording an interception. Ringo is poised to be a key player in the secondary moving forward.
Adding to the competition, Isaiah Rodgers had a standout minicamp and is expected to secure a roster spot at cornerback. The Eagles' recent draft picks, Quinyon Mitchell and Cooper DeJean, bring versatility to the table, having lined up inside, outside, and in dime packages. Mitchell, in particular, is a strong contender for a starting position and could potentially become the first Eagles rookie cornerback to start before Week 5 since Eric Allen in 1988.
Cooper DeJean will face off against Avonte Maddox for the slot cornerback role, providing healthy competition within the position. Meanwhile, Eli Ricks and Josh Jobe are also battling for positions on the roster, with Jobe's expertise on special teams adding value to his candidacy.
With Darius Slay, Quinyon Mitchell, Cooper DeJean, Kelee Ringo, and Isaiah Rodgers presumed locks for five of the six cornerback slots, the competition remains fierce. Tyler Hall, signed in March, is making a strong case for both a special teams role and a shot at starting in the slot, further intensifying the fight for the final cornerback position.
As the Eagles navigate these personnel decisions, the focus remains on shoring up a pass defense that struggled mightily last season. With a blend of seasoned veterans and promising rookies, the team's secondary appears to be on a path toward improvement. How these players adapt and perform in the coming months will be crucial in determining the effectiveness of this defensive overhaul.