Eagles training camp could be dominated by a player nobody saw coming

The Philadelphia Eagles have a lot of unproven talent entering the 2025 season, but one player has caught the attention of some as a potential breakout star in training camp and the regular season.

The Athletic Eagles beat writer Brooks Kubena joined the panel of his colleagues at the website in a collaborative article naming the breakout star of 2025 on their team. Cornerback Kelee Ringo was Kubena's choice for the Eagles.

"That the Eagles didn’t make any major external moves to land a replacement for Darius Slay reveals the confidence they have in Ringo. The 2023 fourth-round pick struggled as a rookie but has the physical tools to become an everyday starter. He’s going to get his chance. At 23, he’s younger than five of the rookies the Eagles just drafted. The organization believes it can unlock Ringo’s potential after two years of developing as a pro. Training camp will begin with veteran Adoree’ Jackson as Ringo’s chief competition. Defensive coordinator Vic Fangio appears content with keeping Cooper DeJean as the defense’s starting nickel, although DeJean kicked out to cornerback in base and could eventually prove he’s a better full-time option than Ringo. But that would mean someone else needs to play the nickel role. The circumstances of 2025 have given Ringo his best chance yet to prove himself. Perhaps he’ll seize the moment."

Philly has big expectations for Ringo to step up as a starter

Standing at 6-foot-2, the Eagles want Ringo to be a star as his height is exactly what they need in the secondary. They need someone who can go up against the tallest receivers in the red zone and win those 50-50 balls.

Ringo hasn't had too much of a chance to showcase his skills as he has only started five of his 34 career games. He has posted 36 tackles, three pass deflections, two fumble recoveries, one forced fumble, one quarterback hit, and one interception in that span.

Between Ringo and Jackson, Fangio would prefer Ringo to start as he has shown to value experience in his defense over anything else. It's why Tristin McCollum has stayed in the conversation at safety against Andrew Mukuba and Sydney Brown.

DeJean could ultimately decide where Ringo lines up if he can start, as DeJean is going to play slot, outside, and safety. That might cause Ringo to do the same and move around between nickel and outside.

Training camp will showcase a fascinating position battle between Ringo and Jackson. The potential that Ringo has on the outside is worth it for Philadelphia to give him a shot in 2025 and see if it pays off.