Alabama fans are watching another undrafted Crimson Tide cornerback turn heads in NFL Preseason action.
Eli Ricks, a former five-star recruit, did not achieve the success he wanted in one season at Alabama.
RELATED: Alabama DB Eli Ricks signs with the Philadelphia Eagles
He recorded four pass breakups in 2022, but more was expected from him. His physical tools and potential got the Philadelphia Eagles to sign him as an undrafted free agent, and the California native is making things happen. He’s recorded a pick-six in the preseason and locked down wide receivers for the Indianapolis Colts. Ricks could have been a first-round pick if he would have played more in Alabama’s defense. He has earned a 90.2 coverage grade from Pro Football Focus. Ricks has allowed six catches on 15 targets and a passer rating of 54.9 to opposing quarterbacks. He’s tallied three breakups and an interception so far.
Eagles CB Eli Ricks this Preseason:
🦅 90.2 Coverage Grade
🦅 15 Targets (6 Catches Allowed)
🦅 1 INT | 3 PBUs
🦅 54.9 Passer Rating Allowed pic.twitter.com/RrL2smsB9m— PFF College (@PFF_College) August 25, 2023
Ricks has the third-highest pass-coverage grade of any cornerback in the preseason.
Eli Ricks has the third-highest pass-coverage grade out of any cornerback in the preseason (90.2)
• 15 targets on 67 pass snaps
• 6 catches allowed for 90 yards
• 3 pass breakups
• 1 INT
• 1 TDRoster spot secured 🔒 pic.twitter.com/RaFAYypm2C
— Brenden Deeg (@BrendenDeeg_) August 25, 2023
According to Eliot Shorr-Parks, a beat reporter for the Eagles, he has Ricks making the 53-man roster.
My Final #Eagles 53-Man Roster Prediction:
Some notes:
** I just put the 53 players I think they value the most. I didn’t worry about position numbers
** They will find a new punter via trade or cuts
** The Week 1 roster needs — P, PR, LB depth, etc — can be promoted from…— Eliot Shorr-Parks (@EliotShorrParks) August 25, 2023
If he can stay healthy and continue to progress, Ricks will be special in the pros.
RELATED: Alabama CB Eli Ricks announces NFL draft decision
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Stephen M. Smith is the managing editor and senior writer for Touchdown Alabama Magazine. You can “like” him on Facebook or “follow” him on Twitter, via @CoachingMSmith.
