Sometimes, change kicks off even before the game starts.  After weeks of struggling defensively, defensive coordinator Vic Fangio hinted at possible lineup adjustments for Kelee Ringo’s position ahead of Sunday’s game against the Vikings. Right after that decision, the young cornerback made a surprising off-field move that raised eyebrows across the fanbase.

Not long after Fangio’s statements, Ringo surprised fans with an Instagram story where he was seen holding his freshly cut dreads. While it might seem like a small gesture, it felt quite symbolic. This comes amid reports that Fangio is considering relying on veteran Adoree’ Jackson to play opposite Quinyon Mitchell if the rookie is back from a hamstring injury. This puts Ringo’s position at risk. This decision follows a tough period for the young cornerback.

In the game against the Giants, Ringo was targeted multiple times, allowing several big plays and racking up two penalties. His Pro Football Focus grade of 29.6 was the lowest among Eagles defenders. ESPN’s Bill Barnwell even suggested the idea of a trade, proposing that Philadelphia could swap Ringo for Seattle’s Tariq Woolen, a move that might benefit both teams looking for a fresh start.

For Ringo, this haircut could symbolize that very turning point. After weeks of being under the microscope, it’s a clear sign of a new beginning. It can be a message that he’s aware of the situation and ready to tackle it head-on. Whether this leads to better performance on the field is still up in the air.

As the Eagles head to Minnesota to take on Carson Wentz, Fangio’s defense can’t afford any more slip-ups. The coordinator has made his stance clear, and Ringo has responded in his own way. Now, it’s just a matter of seeing if this bold decision marks the beginning of his comeback.

Eagles prepare for Carson Wentz reunion in tough road test vs. Vikings

For the first time in nearly a month, the Eagles will walk into a roaring dome as the Vikings return home to U.S. Bank Stadium. The matchup carries a quiet tension, not just because of the noise, but because of the familiar face waiting on the other sideline.

Carson Wentz, once the Eagles’ chosen one, will start for Minnesota against his former team. Now 32, he’s filling in for injured starter J.J. McCarthy, who’s still recovering from a high-ankle sprain. Wentz has gone 2-1 in relief and says Sunday’s reunion is just business.

“It just looks different,” he told reporters. “A lot of respect for those guys… But at the same time, that feels like multiple lifetimes ago at this point.”

Philadelphia’s defense will need to prepare for both quarterbacks. McCarthy offers mobility, while Wentz brings unpredictability. Fangio has called both “athletic” and praised Minnesota’s offensive scheme, though it’s clear this will be one of the weaker QB duos the Eagles have faced.

The real danger lies outside. Justin Jefferson and Jordan Addison form one of the NFL’s most dynamic receiver tandems, combining precision and explosiveness. With Quinyon Mitchell back after his hamstring injury and the No. 2 cornerback spot taken by Adoree’ Jackson, the Eagles’ secondary faces a massive test.

On the other hand, the Vikings’ defense, led by Brian Flores, thrives on confusion and disguise. That uncertainty may test Jalen Hurts and an Eagles offense still trying to find its footing, especially in the run game.

Minnesota’s run defense ranks near the bottom of the league, but the Eagles’ once-dominant rushing attack hasn’t looked the same. If Philadelphia wants to silence the SKOL chants, then rediscovering that physical edge up front may be its only hope.