Philadelphia Eagles' Overhauled Secondary: A Preview of 2023
The Philadelphia Eagles' previous season saw their pass defense ranked among the lowest in the NFL, allowing an alarming 97.6 passer rating and conceding 35 passing touchdowns. Recognizing the need for radical changes, the Eagles have since undergone a significant overhaul, particularly in their secondary, with the aim of transforming a glaring weakness into a formidable strength.
At the heart of this revamp lies the cornerback position, where last season’s key players, Darius Slay and James Bradberry, still remain. Slay continues his role, but Bradberry, who allowed nine passing touchdowns and an 87.9 passer rating in the previous season, faces uncertainty. At 31, Bradberry has two years remaining on a three-year, $38 million contract he signed in 2023. The Eagles are exploring options, including a potential trade or a post-June 1 cut, which would result in cap savings. In a twist, the team may also experiment with Bradberry at safety within Vic Fangio's defense, or he may compete for the starting cornerback spot opposite Slay.
Meanwhile, younger talents are stepping into the spotlight, highlighting the Eagles’ strategic youth movement. Of particular note is Kelee Ringo, who showcased his potential during the final four regular-season games last season, playing 198 of his 199 defensive snaps. Ringo's performance during this stretch was impressive, allowing a mere 40.8 passer rating in coverage while also snagging an interception. Isaiah Rodgers, who had a strong minicamp, faces an uphill battle for first-team reps against Ringo but is expected to secure a roster spot at cornerback.
The Eagles' recent draft picks, Quinyon Mitchell and Cooper DeJean, also hint at a bright future for the secondary. Both rookies have versatility, lining up inside, outside, and in dime packages. Mitchell, in particular, is a strong contender for a starting position and could become the first Eagles rookie cornerback to start before Week 5 since Eric Allen in 1988. Cooper DeJean will compete with Avonte Maddox for the slot cornerback role, adding another layer of competition.
In addition to these emerging stars, Eli Ricks and Josh Jobe are battling for positions, with Jobe being particularly noted for his special teams expertise. With Slay, Mitchell, DeJean, Ringo, and Rodgers being the presumed locks for five of the six cornerback slots, the competition remains fierce. Another newcomer, Tyler Hall, signed in March, is vying for both a special teams role and a chance to start in the slot.
The urgency to resolve the Bradberry situation adds another element of intrigue as the Eagles maneuver their offseason plans. Despite Bradberry's significant contributions last season, including tying the knot on a lucrative deal, his age and contract dynamics compel the Eagles to find an optimal course of action sooner rather than later.
Amidst these transitions and the integration of younger players, the secondary appears poised for significant improvements. The focus on cultivating talent and the potential shifts in player roles indicate a strategic effort by the Eagles to fortify their pass defense and rectify last season’s deficiencies.
As the new season inches closer, the revamped secondary of the Philadelphia Eagles will be a critical area to watch. The blend of experienced veterans and promising newcomers holds the key to potentially transforming the once struggling unit into a defensive stronghold. Whether through trades, position shifts, or intense player competition, the Eagles are clearly committed to ensuring their secondary no longer serves as a liability but becomes a foundational element of their defensive arsenal.