The Eagles are bringing back a familiar face in the defensive backfield in Eli Ricks. After starting cornerback Adoree' Jackson exited the Eagles' Week 3 victory against the Rams, Howie Roseman brought back the Alabama product as an insurance option just in case Jackson is sidelined.
Ricks has already bounced back and forth on the waiver wire several times this season, and with the Eagles placing Jakorian Bennett on IR, the experienced Ricks is needed now as the Eagles continue to deal with injuries.
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The Eagles will also now lean on veteran Parry Nickerson to step up as well, as he'll be replacing Bennett on the active roster. Nickerson, though a veteran of 30 games, hasn't appeared in a regular-season game since 2023, or over 10 games since 2018. Nickerson does have versatility on special teams and nickel; however, with the recent struggles of CB2 for the Eagles, it may be a tall task for anyone starting opposite Quinyon Mitchell.
The Eagles could fall back into Cooper DeJean at CB2 or even see what they have in 2025 draft pick Mac McWilliams. McWilliams was a fifth-round pick in this past class; however, he has appeared in two games, recording two special teams snaps, but has yet to appear on defense.
Overall, the Eagles may have some reprieve going into Sunday's matchup vs the Bucs. While Tampa's offense is dynamic, they are dealing with injuries, with Mike Evans out 3-4 weeks and Emeka Egbuka now listed on the injury report.
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With the recent set of musical chairs on the Eagles' active roster and practice squad, it is possible to wonder if Roseman will make a trade. While Bennett is eligible to return after four weeks, his current status is unknown. The Eagles have yet to announce Jackson's availability for week four. Still, regardless, it seems that Nickerson, Ricks, and McWilliams will have to step up right now for the foreseeable future.