The Philadelphia Eagles made a misstep by allowing cornerback Isaiah Rodgers to walk, especially at the price the Minnesota Vikings secured him for: 2 years, $11.045 million. Given his talent, versatility, and upside, this contract is a bargain in today’s NFL market for a player with his ceiling — particularly for a team like the Eagles, who are in dire need of dependable secondary play.
Rodgers, despite missing the 2023 season due to suspension, has shown the kind of explosiveness and coverage ability that can change the momentum of a game. In 2022, before his suspension, he graded out as one of the league’s most efficient cornerbacks according to Pro Football Focus. He allowed a passer rating of just 49.9 when targeted — a number that speaks to his ball-tracking, awareness, and fluidity in man and zone schemes alike. His speed and instincts make him a legitimate threat both in coverage and on special teams, where he’s also made an impact as a return man.
The Eagles’ secondary has been inconsistent at best. With aging veterans like Darius Slay and the departure of C.J. Gardner-Johnson in 2023, there has been a clear need for young, dynamic talent. Philadelphia did invest in youth through the draft, but rookies can’t always be expected to step in and perform at a high level immediately — particularly in high-stakes, playoff-contending environments. Rodgers could have provided a bridge between youth and experience, with the upside of developing into a top-tier starter or elite slot corner, all while being affordable against the cap.
What makes this situation even more frustrating for Eagles fans is the affordability and length of the contract. Two years at just over $11 million is hardly a cap-busting deal. For context, the Eagles have spent more on rotational pass rushers and underperforming depth pieces in recent years. Rodgers is a player who could have come in and contributed Day 1 while still allowing the team flexibility in the secondary. With the cap expected to rise, this contract becomes even more palatable by 2026.
Furthermore, Rodgers already had ties to the Eagles, and many believed he was poised for a breakout season in midnight green. By not bringing him back, the Eagles not only lost a potential starter — they let a high-upside player go to a conference rival that will now benefit from his presence.
Minnesota, meanwhile, continues to build a sneaky-good defense, and landing Rodgers for such a modest deal only strengthens their secondary, especially under Brian Flores’ aggressive scheme. The Eagles missed an opportunity not only to upgrade but to keep a talented piece from improving a potential NFC playoff opponent.
In conclusion, the Eagles should have re-signed Isaiah Rodgers. The Vikings’ 2-year, $11.045 million deal is more than reasonable, and the upside Rodgers brings far outweighs the cost. With cornerback depth becoming more vital each year, Philadelphia’s front office will likely regret letting him go — especially if Rodgers shines in purple and gold.
