Introduction
Eli Apple is a name that resonates with NFL fans and analysts alike. Known for his athleticism and playmaking ability, Apple has played for several teams in the NFL and continues to be a subject of keen interest in football circles. From his college football days at Ohio State to his various contracts and performances evaluated by Pro Football Focus (PFF), Apple’s career trajectory offers insight into the life of a professional cornerback. This article explores Eli Apple’s journey, including his contracts, teams, college background, and PFF evaluations.
Who is Eli Apple?
Eli Apple, born August 9, 1995, in Voorhees, New Jersey, is a professional American football cornerback. Standing at 6 feet 1 inch and weighing around 200 pounds, Apple combines size, speed, and agility — essential traits for a successful NFL defensive back. His journey has been one of resilience, growth, and adaptation, as he’s played for several top-tier NFL teams and faced scrutiny, praise, and everything in between.
Eli Apple’s College Football Career
Ohio State Buckeye Legacy
Before entering the NFL, Eli Apple was a standout at Ohio State University, one of the most prestigious football programs in the country. He committed to the Buckeyes as a highly regarded four-star recruit out of Eastern High School in New Jersey. Known for his physicality and man-to-man coverage ability, Apple quickly became a key component of Ohio State’s defense.
In the 2014 season, Apple played a pivotal role in Ohio State’s national championship victory. He started 14 of 15 games that year and made crucial plays, including an interception in the 2015 Sugar Bowl against Alabama. His combination of athleticism, football IQ, and coverage skills made him a top NFL Draft prospect.
NFL Draft and Rookie Contract
Drafted by the New York Giants
Eli Apple declared for the NFL Draft after his redshirt sophomore year. In the 2016 NFL Draft, the New York Giants selected Apple with the 10th overall pick in the first round — a clear indication of his elite talent and potential. The Giants believed Apple would bring stability and lockdown coverage to their secondary.
Rookie Contract
Apple signed a four-year rookie contract with the Giants worth $15.15 million, fully guaranteed. The deal included a signing bonus of approximately $9.2 million. As per NFL norms, this rookie contract followed the slotted payment structure assigned to first-round picks.
Eli Apple NFL Teams: A Career of Movement
Over his career, Apple has played for multiple teams, each stop adding a new layer to his NFL experience.
1. New York Giants (2016–2018)
Apple began his career with the Giants and started 11 games in his rookie season. He showed flashes of brilliance but also struggled with consistency and off-field issues. By his third season, Apple had become a divisive figure among fans and the media.
His tenure in New York was marred by injuries, locker room controversies, and inconsistent play. In 2018, the Giants decided to move on from Apple and traded him mid-season.
2. New Orleans Saints (2018–2019)
Apple was traded to the New Orleans Saints in exchange for a fourth-round pick in 2019 and a seventh-round pick in 2020. His play improved significantly in New Orleans, benefiting from a strong supporting cast and coaching stability.
Apple started 15 games in the 2019 season and helped solidify the Saints’ secondary. However, New Orleans did not re-sign him after his contract expired, making him a free agent.
3. Carolina Panthers (2020)
In 2020, Apple signed a one-year, $3 million deal with the Carolina Panthers. Unfortunately, his stint was riddled with injuries. He played in only two games before being released in October 2020.
4. Cincinnati Bengals (2021–2022)
Apple found a more stable home with the Cincinnati Bengals, signing a one-year, $1.2 million contract in 2021. He became a vital part of their defense, starting 15 games and recording two interceptions and 49 tackles.
In the 2021-22 playoffs, Apple made headlines for his performances during the Bengals’ unexpected Super Bowl run. His on-field chatter and social media presence also drew attention.
He re-signed with the Bengals for the 2022 season on another one-year deal, showing continuity and further improvement. However, inconsistency remained a theme in his performance.
5. Miami Dolphins (2023)
In 2023, Apple signed with the Miami Dolphins, offering veteran depth to a talented secondary. Although his playing time was reduced due to the emergence of younger talents, he remained a reliable rotational player.
Eli Apple’s Contracts: Earnings Overview
Here’s a summary of Eli Apple’s known NFL contracts:
| Team | Year | Contract Details |
|---|---|---|
| New York Giants | 2016 | 4 years, $15.15 million (rookie deal) |
| New Orleans Saints | 2018 | Continued on rookie contract post-trade |
| Carolina Panthers | 2020 | 1 year, $3 million |
| Cincinnati Bengals | 2021 | 1 year, $1.2 million |
| Cincinnati Bengals | 2022 | 1 year, approx. $1.5 million (incentive-laden) |
| Miami Dolphins | 2023 | 1 year, veteran minimum (~$1.3 million) |
Total Career Earnings (Estimate): Over $22 million
Despite some ups and downs, Apple has carved out a lucrative and sustained career in the NFL.
Eli Apple: PFF Grades and Analysis
Pro Football Focus (PFF) Ratings
Pro Football Focus offers a detailed statistical breakdown of player performance, grading every player on a scale from 0 to 100.
Here’s a summary of Eli Apple’s notable PFF grades over his career:
| Season | Team | PFF Grade | Coverage Grade | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2016 | New York Giants | 65.7 | 64.1 | Decent rookie season with potential |
| 2018 | New Orleans Saints | 68.2 | 69.3 | Improved under new system |
| 2021 | Cincinnati Bengals | 60.8 | 59.4 | Average season, big plays in playoffs |
| 2022 | Cincinnati Bengals | 62.5 | 63.2 | More consistent but still exposed at times |
| 2023 | Miami Dolphins | 57.9 | 55.6 | Limited snaps, rotational player |
What Do PFF Grades Say?
Apple’s PFF grades indicate a player who is serviceable but inconsistent. He is not considered an elite cornerback by analytical standards, but he has held his own in high-pressure situations. His physical tools remain appealing, but lapses in coverage and penalties have often hurt his overall grades.
Off-Field Persona and Media Presence
Eli Apple has also made headlines for his social media activity and interactions with other NFL players. Never one to shy away from trash talk, Apple has had Twitter beefs with players like Tyreek Hill and Stefon Diggs.
While some appreciate his confidence, others see it as a distraction. Regardless, Apple’s personality adds an entertainment factor that keeps him relevant in discussions even when he isn’t on the field.
Career Stats Summary (As of 2024)
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Games Played: 88
-
Games Started: 78
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Total Tackles: 355
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Interceptions: 5
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Passes Defended: 53
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Forced Fumbles: 3
Apple has demonstrated durability and versatility, often matching up with opponents’ top receivers.
Eli Apple’s Strengths and Weaknesses
Strengths:
- Size and Length: At 6’1”, Apple has ideal size to challenge taller receivers.
- Physicality: Plays with aggressiveness in press coverage.
- Experience: Played in high-pressure playoff games, including the Super Bowl.
- Versatility: Can play both outside and slot corner positions.
Weaknesses:
- Penalties: Known to commit costly penalties at inopportune moments.
- Inconsistent Coverage: Tends to allow big plays when technique breaks down.
- Ball Skills: Interception totals are relatively low for a starting CB.
What’s Next for Eli Apple?
As of 2025, Eli Apple remains a free agent. He could be picked up by a team looking for a veteran presence, especially in case of injuries during training camp or the regular season. At age 30, Apple still has gas in the tank but will likely have to accept backup or rotational roles.
His future may also lie in mentoring younger players, given his experience and knowledge of multiple defensive schemes.
Conclusion
Eli Apple’s NFL journey is a story of promise, perseverance, and constant evolution. From being a top-10 NFL Draft pick out of Ohio State to starting in the Super Bowl with the Bengals, Apple has experienced the full spectrum of professional football.
Whether you focus on his contracts, team changes, college accolades, or PFF ratings, one thing remains clear — Eli Apple has left a distinct mark on the NFL. While his career has had its fair share of highs and lows, Apple continues to draw attention and contribute where he can.
As teams look to bolster their secondary in the ever-evolving NFL landscape, don’t be surprised if Eli Apple gets another shot at proving his worth on the field.
