The Philadelphia Eagles Eye Defensive Overhaul for the 2023 Season
The Philadelphia Eagles are coming off a season plagued by defensive shortcomings, especially in the secondary. With the pass defense ranking among the lowest in the NFL, allowing a 97.6 passer rating and conceding 35 passing touchdowns, substantial changes were inevitable. As the Eagles gear up for the 2023 season, a comprehensive overhaul of their secondary appears to be in full swing.
Returning Cornerbacks: Slay and Bradberry
Darius Slay, a mainstay in the Eagles' defense, returns in his pivotal role, providing some continuity in an otherwise evolving unit. However, the situation surrounding James Bradberry, another key cornerback from last season, is less straightforward. Bradberry, who allowed nine passing touchdowns and an 87.9 passer rating, is under intense scrutiny. At 31 years old and entering the second year of a three-year, $38 million contract he signed in 2023, Bradberry’s future with the team is uncertain.
The Eagles are weighing their options with Bradberry, including a potential trade or a post-June 1 cut, which would yield cap savings for the team. An alternative could see Bradberry transitioning to safety under Vic Fangio's defense or competing for a starting cornerback spot opposite Slay.
New Faces and Fierce Competition
Among the fresh faces in the Eagles' secondary, Kelee Ringo stands out. After playing 198 out of 199 defensive snaps in the last four regular-season games and allowing a mere 40.8 passer rating in coverage, along with recording an interception, Ringo is poised to make a significant impact. His performance has made him a presumed lock for one of the six coveted cornerback slots.
Adding to the competition, Isaiah Rodgers has impressed during minicamp, solidifying his chances of securing a roster spot at cornerback. Meanwhile, Quinyon Mitchell and Cooper DeJean, recent draft picks, bring versatility, able to line up inside, outside, and in dime packages – a valuable trait in today’s multifaceted defensive schemes. Mitchell, in particular, is a strong contender for a starting role and could make history by becoming the first Eagles rookie cornerback to start before Week 5 since Eric Allen in 1988. DeJean, on the other hand, faces a battle with Avonte Maddox for the slot cornerback position.
Rounding out the roster, Eli Ricks and Josh Jobe are battling for their spots, with Jobe’s special teams prowess potentially giving him the edge. Tyler Hall, a March signee, is not just aiming for a special teams role but is also vying for an opportunity to start in the slot, further intensifying the competition.
The Road Ahead
As the Eagles head into the new season, the revamped secondary will undoubtedly be under the spotlight. With a blend of seasoned veterans and promising newcomers, the defense aims to rectify last season's vulnerabilities.
Darius Slay continues to be the cornerstone of the unit, but how the other pieces fit around him will be crucial. Will James Bradberry adapt to a new role, or will the Eagles part ways in favor of cap savings and younger talent? How will rookies like Quinyon Mitchell perform under the bright lights? And can Kelee Ringo build on his late-season surge?
These are just a few of the questions that will shape the Eagles’ defensive identity in 2023. One thing is clear: the commitment to improvement is undisputed as the team prepares to take flight with renewed defensive vigor.