Eagles to Bench Kelee Ringo After Struggles vs. Giants; Adoree’ Jackson Expected to Reclaim Starting Role

PHILADELPHIA — The Philadelphia Eagles’ ongoing cornerback carousel will continue this Sunday, as defensive coordinator Vic Fangio confirmed plans to make yet another change in the secondary.

After a disappointing performance in the Week 6 loss to the New York Giants, second-year cornerback Kelee Ringo is expected to be benched in favor of veteran Adoree’ Jackson, who will likely reclaim his starting spot when the Eagles face the Minnesota Vikings in Week 7.

A Struggling Young Corner

Ringo, a 2023 fourth-round pick, has had a turbulent start to his sophomore season. After showing flashes of potential as a rookie, his 2024 campaign has been defined by inconsistency and costly mistakes.

In last Sunday’s 27–17 loss to the Giants, Ringo’s struggles were on full display. On the game’s opening drive, New York’s backup wide receiver Lil’Jordan Humphrey outmuscled Ringo for a 34-yard contested catch that set up a 20-yard touchdown run by rookie quarterback Jaxson Dart.

Moments later, Wan’Dale Robinson burned Ringo for another big gain — a 26-yard reception where the receiver slipped, got back up, and ran for extra yards after Ringo failed to touch him down.

The miscues didn’t stop there. Ringo was flagged for pass interference in the fourth quarter on a deep throw to Jalin Hyatt, setting up a one-yard touchdown run that sealed the victory for New York.

The young corner’s missed assignments and penalties were emblematic of a larger issue for the Eagles’ defense: a lack of discipline and communication in the secondary.

Fangio’s Tough Call

Speaking with reporters on Tuesday, Fangio didn’t mince words when discussing the team’s defensive performance.

“We’ve got to be better in coverage,” Fangio said. “We can’t give up explosive plays and expect to win football games. Every snap matters, and we need guys who can execute consistently.”

When asked specifically about Ringo, Fangio confirmed that Adoree’ Jackson is “in line to start” against Minnesota.

“Adoree’s experience and leadership are important for us right now,” Fangio added. “He understands what we’re trying to do schematically, and we trust him to stabilize that corner spot.”

Jackson, who started the first three games of the season before suffering a hamstring injury, has been slowly working back into game shape. He was a full participant in practice this week and appears ready to resume full-time duties.

The Numbers Don’t Lie

The Eagles’ defensive numbers tell the story of a team struggling to find rhythm. Through six games, Philadelphia ranks 27th in the NFL in passing yards allowed and 25th in completion percentage allowed. Opposing quarterbacks have a combined 101.4 passer rating when targeting the Eagles’ outside corners — a steep decline from last year’s dominant unit.

Part of the issue has been personnel instability. Fangio has rotated through Ringo, Jackson, Quinyon Mitchell, and Josh Jobe, searching for a reliable combination. Mitchell’s recent hamstring injury only adds to the uncertainty.

Ringo, in particular, has been targeted relentlessly by opposing offenses. According to Pro Football Focus, he’s allowed a completion on 72% of passes thrown his way, including three touchdowns and a 129.3 passer rating when targeted.

Those numbers made Fangio’s decision all but inevitable.

Jackson’s Return: Experience Over Potential

At 29, Adoree’ Jackson brings much-needed veteran stability to a young secondary. A former first-round pick of the Tennessee Titans, Jackson joined the Eagles this offseason to add depth and leadership.

Before his injury, Jackson recorded 14 tackles, two pass breakups, and allowed just one completion of over 20 yards. His experience in man and zone coverage — combined with his ability to read offensive concepts — could help calm a unit that has struggled with communication breakdowns.

“He’s been in these situations before,” safety Reed Blankenship said of Jackson. “He knows how to keep his composure, and that’s something our younger guys can learn from.”

With Jackson healthy again, Fangio is expected to pair him with veteran James Bradberry on the outside, while Cooper DeJean or Avonte Maddox handles slot duties.

What It Means for Ringo’s Future

For Kelee Ringo, the benching is a setback — but not necessarily a permanent demotion. Fangio emphasized that the young corner still has a bright future if he can correct his mistakes.

“He’s talented,” Fangio said. “He’s got the size, speed, and physical tools to be a great corner in this league. But right now, it’s about fundamentals. He’s got to get back to the basics — proper leverage, tackling, and situational awareness.”

At 22, Ringo still has time to develop, but the Eagles are in win-now mode. With Jalen Hurts and the offense firing on all cylinders, the defense cannot afford growing pains that cost them close games.

The coaching staff hopes the move will serve as a “reset” for Ringo, allowing him to regain confidence without the pressure of starting.

The Bigger Picture: Defensive Identity Crisis

The Eagles’ defensive inconsistency has been a talking point all season. Once known for their aggressive pass rush and stingy coverage, the team has struggled to replicate the balance that defined their 2022 Super Bowl run.

Philadelphia’s front seven remains formidable, led by Jalen Carter, Haason Reddick, and Jordan Davis, but the lack of cohesion in the secondary has made the defense vulnerable to big plays — especially on third downs.

Fangio’s system, which emphasizes complex zone coverages and disciplined positioning, requires communication and trust. The revolving door at cornerback has made that difficult to establish.

“We’re still finding our rhythm,” Fangio admitted. “It’s not about one player. It’s about all 11 working together.”

Still, benching Ringo and reintroducing Jackson is a clear message: production, not potential, determines playing time.

Looking Ahead

The Eagles (4–2) will face the Minnesota Vikings in Week 7 — a team that loves to test opposing secondaries with deep passes and play-action. With Justin Jefferson and Jordan Addison looming as threats, Fangio’s defense will need its best performance of the year to avoid another shootout.

For Adoree’ Jackson, it’s a chance to reclaim his starting role and stabilize the defense. For Kelee Ringo, it’s a lesson in accountability — and a reminder that talent alone won’t keep you on the field.

As Fangio put it, “We don’t bench players to punish them. We do it to get better. And right now, we need to be better.”