In anticipation of the 2023 NFL season, the Philadelphia Eagles have significantly overhauled their secondary, striving to rectify a pass defense that was ranked among the league’s lowest last year. The team's inability to contain opposing quarterbacks was glaring, as they allowed a passer rating of 97.6 and conceded 35 passing touchdowns. Significant changes to personnel and strategy are on the horizon in a bid to improve these troubling statistics.
Continuity and Change in the Secondary
Last season, cornerbacks Darius Slay and James Bradberry were key figures in the Eagles' secondary. While Slay retains his role, Bradberry's performance raised some concerns, as he allowed nine passing touchdowns and an 87.9 passer rating. Bradberry, now 31 years old, is in the second year of a three-year, $38 million contract signed in 2023. Despite this, his future with the team remains uncertain. The Eagles are exploring various options, including a potential trade or a post-June 1 cut, which would offer considerable cap savings for the franchise.
The Eagles are also contemplating experimenting with Bradberry in a different role within Vic Fangio’s defense. He might be tried at safety, or he could compete for the starting cornerback spot opposite Darius Slay. This flexibility underscores the Eagles' commitment to optimizing their defensive lineup for better performance.
Rising Stars and New Faces
The Eagles are not just looking at veteran talent but also banking on youthful exuberance and potential. Kelee Ringo emerged as a promising player during the final four regular-season games last year, playing 198 out of 199 defensive snaps, allowing a mere 40.8 passer rating and recording an interception. His performance positions him as a likely starter for the coming season.
Isaiah Rodgers has also made a strong case for himself after an impressive minicamp and is expected to secure a cornerback roster spot. The Eagles' recent draft picks, Quinyon Mitchell and Cooper DeJean, bring much-needed versatility to the team, capable of playing inside, outside, and even in dime packages.
Mitchell is particularly notable as a strong contender for a starting position. If he succeeds, he would be the first Eagles rookie cornerback to start before Week 5 since Eric Allen in 1988. On the other hand, DeJean is set to compete with Avonte Maddox for the slot cornerback role, offering depth and flexibility to the defensive setup.
Depth and Specialization
Eli Ricks and Josh Jobe are engaged in a competitive battle for roster positions, with Jobe bringing significant special teams expertise to the table. Given the high stakes, their performances in the preseason will be closely scrutinized.
The Eagles have seemingly locked in their choices for five of the six cornerback slots: Darius Slay, Quinyon Mitchell, Cooper DeJean, Kelee Ringo, and Isaiah Rodgers. This leaves one slot potentially open for Tyler Hall, who was signed in March, and is vying for both a special teams role and a starting chance in the slot.
Strategic Overhaul Under Vic Fangio
Under the guidance of defensive coordinator Vic Fangio, known for his strategic acumen, the Eagles are looking to implement changes that will lead to a more robust pass defense. The emphasis will be on integrating new talent with proven veterans to create a balanced, formidable secondary capable of shutting down high-octane offenses.
As the 2023 season approaches, the Philadelphia Eagles’ secondary remains a focal point of their defensive revamp. With a blend of experienced players and promising young talent, the team aims to rise from the depths of last season’s rankings and establish themselves as a defensive powerhouse.