The Philadelphia Eagles are at a crossroads when it comes to their CB2 position, and General Manager Howie Roseman knows it. Last season, the Eagles struggled to find the right fit opposite their standout corners, All-Pros Cooper DeJean and Quinyon Mitchell. While Adoree' Jackson showed flashes, it wasn’t enough to lock down the position long-term.
At the NFL Combine, Roseman shared his thoughts on the secondary, highlighting DeJean's versatility. "Coop can play anything," Roseman noted.
"Outside corner, nickel, you name it. His flexibility is a huge asset for us."
This adaptability is crucial as the Eagles navigate their offseason strategy, especially with Jackson hitting free agency.
DeJean's prowess in the slot is well-documented. Eagles defensive coordinator Vic Fangio found success with him there, despite a challenging stint outside during a Week 12 clash against the Cowboys. It’s clear that DeJean thrives when covering slot receivers and contributing to run support, making him a key piece of the puzzle.
Mitchell, on the other hand, remains a lockdown force, leaving no doubt about his role. With Jackson's inconsistent performance last season, particularly highlighted by a tough Wild Card loss to the 49ers, the Eagles are eyeing potential upgrades.
As Philly looks to solidify their secondary, the draft and free agency loom large. Mock drafts suggest a new cornerback might be on the horizon, but the Eagles also have other pressing needs, such as a future left tackle, a wide receiver, and possibly an edge rusher.
The bottom line? DeJean's best contributions come from the slot, and the Eagles need to find a dedicated outside corner to complement their defensive lineup. Expect Roseman and Fangio to explore all avenues to address this critical need, ensuring the Eagles' secondary remains a formidable unit.