Eagles Release Former 5-Star Alabama Cornerback Before Broncos Game

NFL Media’s Lance Zierlein was bullish on the 6-foot-2, 188-pound Ricks, predicting that he had the “traits or talent” to be an above-average backup. Zierlein praised Ricks’ ability to handle bigger receivers, though he was admittedly concerned that Ricks had limited starting experience in his final two seasons.

“He’s often a step slow to find top gear when opening to run laterally or vertically, but he’s a human blanket against short and intermediate routes without much wiggle to them,” Zierlein wrote. “Ricks needs to be more assertive against the run and could struggle on an island, but his traits and press talent should fit in the right scheme.”

We’ll see whether the Eagles opt to bring Ricks back yet again, or if he’s indeed played his final snaps in Philadelphia. However, it’s worth noting that Ricks only played 65 snaps, 14 on defense, in seven games a year ago. Compare that to 2023, where Ricks saw 301 defensive snaps and 212 special teams reps.

At this stage in his career, Ricks might become a practice squad mainstay who receives the occasional elevation and opportunity to contribute on special teams. The sharp reduction in snaps has us pessimistic that Ricks will become a reliable defensive contributor moving forward, though he’s still only 24.

As for his former teammates, FanDuel Sportsbook lists the Eagles as -4.5 home favorites (-104, meaning a $100 bet would net a $196.15 payout) over the Denver Broncos. A win would give the Eagles their third 5-0 start in the last five years and extend their rapidly-increasing NFC East lead; Philadelphia enters Week 5 with a two-game lead over the Washington Commanders, though the two won’t meet until Dec. 20.