Philadelphia Eagles cornerback Eli Ricks has been making significant waves during training camp, showcasing a notable uplift in his performance and readiness. During a recent media session, Ricks revealed a key aspect of his offseason preparation: intensive training with former LSU teammate and current NFL star, Derek Stingley Jr., in the picturesque setting of Puerto Rico.
This revelation highlights Ricks’ commitment to elevating his game by learning from one of the league’s premier defensive backs. Derek Stingley Jr., who recently became the NFL’s highest-paid defensive back with a staggering three-year, $90 million deal including $89 million guaranteed, represents the pinnacle of cornerback excellence, making him an ideal training partner for an aspiring talent like Ricks.
Stingley Jr.’s on-field prowess is undeniable; he’s recognized as one of the elite cornerbacks in professional football. Last season alone, he amassed 54 total tackles, broke up 18 passes, and secured five interceptions across 17 games. Furthermore, opposing quarterbacks recorded an exceptionally low passer rating of just 51.2 when targeting him in coverage, underscoring his lockdown capabilities.
The Eagles, as a collective defensive unit, already boast an impressive track record. Last season, the team ranked first in the NFL for allowing the lowest completion percentage at a mere 59% and secured the second-highest number of interceptions with 19. This established defensive strength provides a robust environment for players like Ricks to hone their skills and contribute.
Ricks himself embarked on his NFL journey as an undrafted free agent in 2023, following a collegiate career split between LSU and Alabama. Despite not hearing his name called on draft day, his impressive showing during training camp and preseason earned him a coveted spot on the Eagles’ 53-man roster, a testament to his resilience and talent.
In his rookie season, Ricks participated in 16 games, recording 19 total tackles, one tackle for loss, and three passes defended, demonstrating glimpses of his potential. However, the 2024 NFL Draft saw the Eagles bolster their secondary significantly with the additions of Quinyon Mitchell and Cooper DeJean, which subsequently led to Ricks seeing less action in his most recent season, playing primarily on special teams across seven games, where he logged just two tackles.
Despite the increased competition and a more specialized role, Ricks’ proactive decision to train with an elite player like Derek Stingley Jr. signals his dedication to continuous improvement. Such high-level offseason work could prove instrumental in his long-term development and ability to carve out a more significant defensive role within the Eagles’ formidable secondary.
This commitment to offseason development with top-tier talent often serves as a crucial differentiator for young players striving to make their mark in the demanding environment of the NFL. For Eli Ricks, this intensive training in Puerto Rico could be the foundational step towards unlocking his full potential and securing a more prominent place on the Eagles’ roster in the seasons to come.
