3 Eagles on the Bubble Ahead of 2024 Training Camp

2. Eli Ricks, Cornerback

The Eagle's focus in the 2024 NFL Draft was easy to see. They took Quinyon Mitchell from Toledo at No. 22 overall, giving them a 6-foot-0, 195-pounder who has the skill set to develop into a No. 1 cornerback in a hurry. Having him play opposite Darius Slay, Jr. is the perfect setup as Mitchell can learn from one of the best in the league and take his place as the leader of the secondary when Slay is ready to retire.

Philadelphia wasn't done there, however.

They continued to add to the secondary when they traded up to No. 40 in the second round. That's where they landed Cooper DeJean from Iowa. Projected as a slot corner, DeJean is another player who should be a contributor for many years. He's also a stud on special teams, meaning he will have an impact even if he's not heavily involved in the base defense.

Slay, Mitchell, and DeJean are good enough on their own but the Eagles also have Avonte Maddox and Kelee Ringo, who is coming on strong in 2023. James Bradberry was in the mix but reportedly moved to safety, which could save his job. C.J. Gardner-Johnson was re-signed as well and while he's listed as a safety, he can play in the slot as well.

All that talent makes it tough to see a path to the roster for Eli Ricks. Signed as an undrafted free agent after spending time at LSU and Alabama, the 6-foot-2, 188-pound Ricks appeared in 16 games as a rookie. He had 19 tackles and three pass defenses, proving he can play in the NFL. He just might not get to do it in Philly much longer after all their moves.