As the Philadelphia Eagles gear up for the 2025 season, the competition for the No. 2 cornerback spot opposite Quinyon Mitchell is heating up, and third-year cornerback Kelee Ringo has emerged as a surprising frontrunner. With his bold declaration that “the game is slowing down,” Ringo is signaling a newfound confidence that could reshape the Eagles’ secondary and catch the coaching staff off guard.
Over his first two NFL seasons, Ringo has been primarily a special teams contributor, logging 645 snaps in that role. His defensive opportunities have been limited, with just five regular-season starts, four of which came during his rookie year. However, the departure of veteran cornerbacks Darius Slay and Isaiah Rodgers has opened the door for Ringo to claim a starting role in 2025, and he’s ready to seize the moment.
Ringo’s growth has been evident in his approach to the game. “The game is slowing down a lot more, for sure,” Ringo said. “When the game slows down, you can play a lot faster.” This mental shift has allowed him to process plays more effectively, giving him an edge as he competes for the CB2 position. To further his development, Ringo has taken the initiative to study the playbook beyond his own role. “Diving into playbook and learning other positions that aren’t even mine just to know where my help is,” he explained. “You understand your position and what the guy next to you is doing, you can play much faster.”
Despite his readiness, Ringo faces stiff competition from veteran Adoree Jackson, who was signed in free agency in March 2025. Jackson, now in his ninth NFL season, brings a wealth of experience from his time with the Tennessee Titans and New York Giants. His arrival adds a layer of complexity to Ringo’s path to the starting lineup, but it also provides an invaluable mentorship opportunity.
Ringo has already benefited from learning under veterans like Slay, Rodgers, Avonte Maddox, and James Bradberry during his first two seasons. With those players now gone, Jackson has stepped into the mentorship role, forming a close bond with Ringo, his locker mate. Jackson is impressed by Ringo’s potential, calling him “a freak of nature” for his rare combination of size, speed, and movement skills. “One of the coolest things is that he’s my locker mate, so to be able to talk to him, he’s a funny dude. Good people,” Jackson said.
While Jackson’s experience makes him a strong contender for the CB2 role, Ringo’s recent comments and development suggest he’s ready to challenge expectations. His improved understanding of the game, combined with his athletic gifts, could make him a breakout star in 2025. The Eagles’ coaching staff may not have anticipated Ringo’s rapid growth, but his bold mindset and preparation are forcing them to take notice in the race for the starting cornerback spot.