Ringo Seeks Redemption in Tampa Bay
Kelee Ringo, the young cornerback for the Philadelphia Eagles, finds himself at a pivotal moment in his career. After a summer of struggles that relegated him to special teams, Ringo is now on the verge of a potential redemption arc as injuries within the team may open a door for him this week in Tampa Bay.
A Challenging Summer
The summer did not unfold as Ringo had hoped. The third-year cornerback, known for his talent during his college days at Georgia, faced significant challenges during training camp. Defensive coordinator Vic Fangio has been monitoring Ringo’s progress closely and has expressed optimism about his readiness for another chance.
“I’ve told Kelee here recently, not in the last few days, but since the end of camp. He’s going to get his opportunity at some point, and he’s got to be ready,” Fangio stated, emphasizing the importance of preparation and confidence for the young player.
At just 23 years old, Ringo has had to adapt to a new role on special teams after losing the outside cornerback position to veteran Adoree’ Jackson. Another rookie, Jakorian Bennett, who was acquired via trade in August, also moved ahead of Ringo on the depth chart. While Bennett’s rise may be attributed to his fresh addition to the team, Ringo’s familiarity with the system remains a critical asset.
Ringo’s Special Teams Contribution
Despite not yet seeing defensive snaps in the Eagles’ impressive 3-0 start, Ringo has made his mark on special teams. He leads the team with 62 snaps in various coverage roles, including kick and punt returns. His speed, clocking in at 4.36 seconds, makes him a valuable asset as a punt gunner. Ringo has recorded four tackles on special teams, ranking just behind Jeremiah Trotter and Kylen Granson in contributions.
Fangio praised Ringo’s mental resilience throughout this transition. “I think he’s handled it very well. It didn’t affect his role as a special teamer, which he’s one of the top ones in the league. I think he knows that, eventually, he’ll get a shot, for some reason whatsoever, and he’ll be ready,” he said, highlighting Ringo’s ability to maintain focus and determination.
Injury Concerns Open Opportunity
As the Eagles prepare to face the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, the coaching staff is keeping a close eye on the injury status of their cornerbacks. Jackson is currently dealing with a groin issue, and Bennett sustained a minor injury during a recent game. These circumstances could pave the way for Ringo to take the field defensively, a chance he has been waiting for since his arrival in the NFL.
Ringo’s journey is a testament to the unpredictable nature of professional sports. With the potential for increased playing time on the horizon, he stands ready to seize the opportunity for redemption. The coming game in Tampa Bay could very well mark a turning point in Ringo’s young career.
