The Philadelphia Eagles' 3-0 start to the season hasn't been without a cost, with a number of defenders dealing with injuries.
Nolan Smith is the most noteworthy piece who is going to miss time after being placed on IR but the injury news has continued with The Athletic's Zach Berman reporting that Adoree' Jackson is doubtful for Sunday's game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Berman also pointed out that this lines up a potential start for backup corner Kelee Ringo.
With this in mind, it is a chance for the Georgia product to cement a role in a secondary desperate to find surprise contributors. Ringo has been an interesting piece in the fact that he has been good enough to continue to earn a depth role but has been a step shy of taking the needed steps to become a starting option. Fans can only hope that this proves to be the needed opportunity to deliver for a prospect who once showed incredible promise.
Eagles Injuries Open the Door for Corner Kelee Ringo to Earn Surprise Start
It wouldn't be a shock to see Jackson taken out of the lineup if Ringo can put together a strong Week 4 performance. He is going to have his chance against the Bucs, who have an aggressive passing attack withBaker Mayfield already trying to get in Philly's head. The Eagles do have the benefit of not having to face Mike Evans, who has already been ruled out for Sunday's matchup. Still, as long as Baker is able to go, the game will be an undeniable test – one that gives Ringo a chance to cement a starting role and make good on his early promise.
The former Bulldog is a rare example of a Georgia product who hasn't been the ideal fit for the Eagles. Perhaps the franchise was due for a bit of regression when you consider Jordan Davis, Nolan Smith, and Jalen Carter have become stars for Philadelphia. Each of this trio has been vital to Philly's recent dominance and remains among the team's most important building blocks.
Still, it would be nice to see RIngo find a way to fight his way into the lineup and perhaps become a factor beyond Week 4. Jackson's struggles in the secondary have been begging another option to step up and take his role. Now, Ringo has that chance and will give Philadelphia a good idea if there is any chance there is still a future fit.
Another rough game likely rules out Ringo having any future with a team that is already appearing unsure of the corner's future. It gives Eagles fans yet another entertaining story to lock into on Sunday.