The CB2 job for the Philadelphia Eagles has been one of the most monitored training camp battles this season for the team in the hopes of having a replacement for Darius Slay.
So far, the search has not gone as well as hoped, with Kelee Ringo and Adoree' Jackson being the top two candidates. Ringo and Jackson had poor showings against the Cincinnati Bengals' preseason game which left more questions than answer for the Eagles' coaching staff.
Before the Bengals game, the Eagles traded for Jakorian Bennett from the Las Vegas Raiders to add in some potential competition. There is one other cornerback who is currently on the roster who isn't being considered for the job, even though he should be, and he proved it with one play at camp.
Eli Ricks' great play at camp showed his true potential
During Saturday's practice, Ricks made the highlight play of the day as he got an interception that was returned for a touchdown. It was a play that was praised by all Eagles media that were there.
"With the offense operating from its own 1-yard line, Ricks jumped Tanner McKee’s pass to Terrace Marshall and his momentum carried him into the end zone for a bang-bang pick-6," NBC Sports Philadlephia Eagles reporter Dave Zangaro recalled. "Ricks celebrated by punting the ball high into the air. While there seemed to be a miscommunication on offense, it was a nice play for Ricks. Vic Fangio last week said Ricks could get into that cornerback battle but the Eagles have since traded for Jakorian Bennett."
"Eli Ricks, repping at RCB, intercepted a Tanner McKee pass for a pick six with the Eagles’ offense backed up against their own 1-yard line," Bleeding Green Nation Eagles reporter Brandon Lee Gowton said. "Not sure if McKee and Terrace Marshall had a miscommunication but kudos to Ricks for making the play in any case. The third-year corner celebrated his touchdown by punting the ball."
Ricks had a solid showing in the preseason game as he racked up two pass deflections in the win. He was the standout corner of the night on the roster with his tight coverage, even it it was against backups.
It may not be realistic to win Ricks is a legitimate contender for the CB2 job, but what is the harm in giving him reps? Ringo and Jackson showed that they are not where they need to be in their development. Even Bennett getting in the race makes sense.
This is a position battle that won't be decided until training camp ends, but someone needs to step up and take the job. Don't sleep on Ricks being that guy.
