Philadelphia Eagles Revamp Secondary for 2023 Season
The Philadelphia Eagles are taking significant steps to address their pass defense woes from last season, which saw them ranked among the lowest in the NFL. With a 97.6 passer rating allowed and 35 passing touchdowns conceded, the Eagles' secondary needed a drastic overhaul heading into the 2023 season.
One of the key figures in last year's secondary, cornerback James Bradberry, is under the microscope. Despite allowing nine passing touchdowns and an 87.9 passer rating, Bradberry remains a crucial piece of the Eagles' defensive puzzle. At 31 years old and with two years remaining on his three-year, $38 million contract, Bradberry’s future with the team is uncertain. The Eagles are exploring options that include a potential trade or a post-June 1 cut to create cap savings.
On a brighter note, Darius Slay continues to hold his position as a key cornerback. Alongside him, the Eagles are experimenting with different strategies for Bradberry, which might see him trying a new role at safety within Vic Fangio’s defensive scheme or competing for the starting cornerback spot opposite Slay.
Emerging Talent and New Additions
Younger players like Kelee Ringo, who played 198 out of 199 defensive snaps during the final four regular-season games last year, are stepping up. Ringo allowed a mere 40.8 passer rating in coverage and recorded an interception, making a strong case for more responsibility in the upcoming season. Isaiah Rodgers also showcased his capabilities during a strong minicamp, solidifying his position as a roster lock at cornerback.
The Eagles have also bolstered their secondary with recent draft picks Quinyon Mitchell and Cooper DeJean. Both players bring versatility, able to line up inside, outside, and in dime packages. Mitchell, in particular, is a strong contender for a starting position and could become the first rookie cornerback to start before Week 5 since Eric Allen in 1988. DeJean will compete with Avonte Maddox for the slot cornerback role, increasing competition and depth in the secondary.
Adding to this mix are Eli Ricks and Josh Jobe, who are battling for roster spots. Jobe’s expertise in special teams adds another layer of value to his candidacy. The Eagles appear to be setting up Darius Slay, Quinyon Mitchell, Cooper DeJean, Kelee Ringo, and Isaiah Rodgers as locks for five of the six cornerback slots, leaving one spot heavily contested.
Another interesting development is the addition of Tyler Hall, who was signed in March. Hall is aiming to secure both a special teams role and a chance to start in the slot, further intensifying the competition within the team.
Outlook for the Season
As the season approaches, the Eagles are clearly committed to ensuring their pass defense is no longer a liability. The combination of experienced players like Slay and Bradberry, emerging talents such as Ringo and Rodgers, and versatile rookies Mitchell and DeJean creates a promising outlook for the revamped secondary.
If all the pieces come together as planned, the Philadelphia Eagles' secondary could transform from one of the league's weakest links to a formidable force. This shift could be a game-changer for a team with lofty aspirations in the 2023 season, providing much-needed relief to a defense that struggled mightily against the pass last year.