The Eagles are hurting on both sides of the ball after losing Lane Johnson to injury, and now slot cornerback Avonte Maddox.
One of the best slot cornerbacks in the NFL, Maddox is the engine that makes Philadelphia’s secondary go, and he’s a major reason why Darius Slay and James Bradberry are one of the most talented outside duos in the NFL.
Maddox exited the 40-34 loss after sacking Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott on the first play of the second quarter. Before the slot cornerback could be carted off the field, Dak Prescott was able to connect on a 34-yard touchdown pass to CeeDee Lamb after a breakdown in coverage.
Maddox, 26, has played in eight games this season but has missed time with a couple of different injuries.
1. Cre'Von LeBlanc
A free agent who has a history in Philadelphia, LeBlanc is a solid option if the Birds want to go outside the organization.
Any GMs or teams that are banged up and could use some help on defense I’m here, available, & 100% healthy!!! 👀
— Cre'Von LeBlanc (@Strap_Ent) December 22, 2022
2. Josiah Scott
Scott has been a liability in coverage over the past few weeks, but his strength is in the slot and he started with Maddox out.
3. Josh Jobe
Playing in space isn’t Jobe’s biggest strength, but he’s a tough, physical cornerback.
4. C.J. Gardner-Johnson
The ball hawk is set to return from injured reserve and the most logical personnel decision is playing Gardner-Johnson in the slot.
5. Andre Chachere
Chachere can play both cornerback and safety, giving Gannon another viable option.
6. Reed Blankenship
Philadelphia can play Blankenship in the box, and he’s athletic enough to play in space.
The likely move is C.J. Gardner-Johnson moving to the slot, while Blankenship continues at safety.
7. K'Von Wallace
An in-the-box safety who’s improving with increased snaps, Wallace knows Gannon’s defensive scheme and is athletic in the box.
8. Mac McCain
The Eagles waived McCain during the final roster cutdown, and the second-year cornerback is now one of three defensive backs on the practice squad, along with safety Andre Chachere and cornerback Mario Goodrich.
The Eagles would have to play more zone with McCain on the roster, but it is a viable option.
