Heading into last Sunday’s game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, the Philadelphia Eagles brought back cornerback Eli Ricks, signing him to the practice squad. The Eagles made this move to protect themselves, as Adoree’ Jackson and Jakorian Bennett were both banged up, leaving time to tell when Ricks would get a chance to shine.
Bennett was eventually placed on injured reserve, while Jackson was sidelined with a groin injury. Still, the Eagles did not need to call up Ricks from the practice squad, as they went with Parry Nickerson to back Kelee Ringo up.
Looking ahead to this week’s game against the Denver Broncos, the Eagles must feel as if the veteran cornerback could play, as they released Ricks from the practice squad on Thursday (h/t @Jeff_McLane). He wasn’t the only guy sent packing, as Philly also parted ways with linebacker Antwaun Powell-Ryland.
Adoree' Jackson on Verge of Returning After Missing Week 4
The 30-year-old defender was a limited participant at Wednesday’s practice and was back on the practice field on Thursday afternoon, per Andrew DiCecco of InsideTheBirds.com. DiCecco also reported that Jackson was working with defensive backs coach Christian Parker.
If you’re the Eagles, you would like to see Jackson back on the field on Sunday, especially since you’ve lost Nolan Smith and Ogbo Okoronkwo on the defensive line to injury. Before the veteran got hurt, he actually played well in Week 2 (vs. Kansas City) and Week 3 (vs. Los Angeles).
After getting lit up like a Christmas tree in Week 1 by the Dallas Cowboys (106 yards allowed on 6 completions), Jackson only gave up 26 yards (3 completions) against the Chiefs and 23 yards (three completions) against the Rams.
That said, it’s not guaranteed that the veteran defensive back gets his starting job back if he’s able to play on Sunday. Earlier this week, defensive coordinator Vic Fangio told reporters that Ringo could still start even when Jackson is healthy.
The long-time defensive coordinator also pointed out that Ringo played well last week against Tampa Bay, but the bigger test for him will be how he can improve. Ringo, who started in place of Jackson, left much to be desired as a tackler; however, he held his own in pass coverage.
With only one more day of practice to go, Eagles fans will see if Jackson can be a full participant again, which would set him up to play against the Broncos on Sunday.