Ronald Darby gives Philadelphia Eagles flexibility at cornerback

After getting a glimpse at Ronald Darby‘s style of play, Philadelphia Eagles management has an understanding of the benefits of his acquisition.

With week two of the pre-season in the books, the Philadelphia Eagles can breathe a little easier. Specifically, the play of cornerback Ronald Darby has reassured upper management. Given the current makeup of the team, the Eagles desperately needed to bring him in. Luckily, the addition has worked out so far.

Interestingly enough, last night’s game was against Ronald Darby’s former team in the Buffalo Bills. Only six days removed from the deal, he had to step up to the plate and show Buffalo what they were missing out on. Oh, Darby did just that.

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In that game, Darby recorded one tackle, along with two pass deflections and an interception. Considering the fact that he’s only been in town for a week, this is a good sign. He’s proving to management why they traded for him in the first place. He deserves props for being both a quick study and an able body.

Now, as much as we want to praise Darby for this performance alone, this gets deeper than that. On the surface, he had a good game. Deep down in the core of this, he helps the depth situation for Philadelphia.

So currently speaking, the Eagles don’t a clear cut idea as to who will start at the cornerback position. However, it is beginning to look like Darby will be the CB1. On the other side, it could very well be any combination of Jalen Mills, Rasul Douglas, or even (but not likely) Patrick Robinson. That’s all well and good for this season. Going beyond that, the Birds have Sidney Jones rehabbing from an Achilles injury he suffered from back at his pro day at the University of Washington.

Darby and Jones Going Forward

Jones was a highly touted cornerback prospect coming out of college. Before the injury occurred, many believed he was the best corner in the 2017 NFL Draft. With the injury, he fell all the way down to the Eagles at the 43rd overall pick in the second round. This pick was made entirely based on upside. Jones has great lateral coverage ability, size (six-foot, 181 pounds), and speed (4.47 seconds).

Anyway, that’s all well and good. Back to Ronald Darby. Bringing Darby in benefits Jones a great. Specifically, in the timeframe of his return. As Philadelphia Eagles Executive Vice President of Football Operations Howie Roseman told John Clark of CSN Philly that Darby’s a benefit in multiple ways.

They can take their time with Jones now. Remember, he was taken in the second round. For a guy who ruptured his Achilles, rest and rehab may very well be the difference between returning at full strength or getting hurt again. Similar to how the Philadelphia 76ers have handled guys like Ben Simmons and Joel Embiid, time heals all wounds.

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At the very least, having Ronald Darby around gives the Eagles an opportunity to continue competing without jeopardizing Jones’ career. It’s a win-win for all parties. Hopefully, this added time will help Sidney Jones return to former either late this season or at the start of next season.

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