The Eagles rookies have been garnering a lot of hype ever since the draft was over back in April. Experts and fans alike largely approved of the Eagles overall draft class and are excited about the potential. Recently, Chad Reuter of the NFL Network made his predictive list for the “2024 NFL All-Rookie Team” With a team of 25 players, one Eagles rookie made the list, defensive back Quinyon Mitchell.
The Outlook on Quinyon Mitchell
Quinyon Mitchel was a highly touted prospect coming out of the draft. Many, including Reuter, were surprised to see him fall to the Eagles. Reuter writes, “Mitchell’s speed and length make him a pass-breakup machine. He’ll get plenty of support for the All-rookie squad if he produces like I expect him to and helps lift the Eagles defense back to a championship-caliber unit.” Mitchell’s speed, agility, and twitchiness are special for a corner. While he did not get to play against a lot of top competition at Toledo, he has the skill set to translate well into the NFL.
Another aspect that makes Mitchell a candidate for this list is the need for the position. The Eagles are desperate for consistent playmakers at cornerback, especially under Vic Fangio. As a first-round pick, Mitchell will get every opportunity to get on the field as early as possible. Despite a versatile and talented cornerback group the Eagles now have, Mitchell has all the traits to live up to his billing and be their guy. This will be important for the Eagles as they match up with CeeDee Lamb and the Dallas Cowboys, Terry McLaurin and the Washington Commanders, as well as first-round rookie receiver Malik Nabers and the New York Giants. The Eagles will need Mitchell to be a force not just for this year but for years to come.
Were Other Eagles Rookies snubbed from the List?
Quinyon Mitchell is the easy choice to make an all-rookie team out of all the Eagles rookies. However, other Eagles rookies could impress in 2024. Another member of the currently crowded Eagles secondary is second-rounder Cooper DeJean. DeJean will bring versatility to the Eagles, presumably seeing time as an outside corner, slot corner, and safety. However, it will be tough for DeJean to get consistent playing time, especially early in the season. Not only Mitchell’s arrival but the signing of Chauncey Garder-Johnson and the reinstatement of Isiah Rodgers will serve as tough competition for DeJean. Regardless, if DeJean can get on the field, he’s a playmaker with size, athleticism, and instincts. His versatility will be a huge help for the Eagles, and he could become a breakout player.
A deep-cut Eagles rookie who has a chance at a special rookie year is wide receiver Ainias Smith. With the third receiver for the Eagles still up in the air, Smith can fill that role in a big way. Smith is a talented receiver who’s tough and quick, two traits that translate well to NFL slot receivers. Despite having a tough road ahead, being a fifth-round pick, Smith can be a surprise rookie that jumps onto the scene.
The Eagles rookies, namely Mitchell and DeJean, will continue to garner a ton of hype from fans. Deservedly so, these players have the chance to elevate the Eagles tremendously. While there are a ton of veterans for them to compete with, their talent cannot be ignored. Regardless, it should be a fun season to watch for Eagles fans. Not only in seeing the new faces make their mark on the team but seeing how they could potentially steer the team back in the right direction.
Main Image: Hart Plaza – USA Today Sports
