Philadelphia Eagles rookie cornerback Quinyon Mitchell has quickly emerged as a standout performer during the team's training camp. Known for his spirited performances and equally spirited trash-talking, Mitchell has not only caught the eye of his teammates but also earned their respect.
Mitchell’s Hard-Earned Promotion
Defensive coordinator Vic Fangio made a bold move by promoting Mitchell to start in the slot position, a decision that surprised many but left Fangio confident. “I do think when you drafted a corner per se in the first round, he needs to be a corner, and then if he can play inside, that's a bonus. This is a bonus right now that he's been able to play inside. We still really like him as a corner, though, too,” Fangio explained.
Mitchell, who has adapted remarkably well to the slot position, has shown the versatility the Eagles hoped to tap into when they drafted him. His ability to perform in multiple roles has been evident, whether he's engaging in one-on-one battles against formidable wide receivers like A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith or switching positions seamlessly.
Trash Talking and Respect
Mitchell's trash-talking, far from a sign of arrogance, seems to be a part of his strategy to elevate his game and those around him. DeVonta Smith shared an anecdote that encapsulates Mitchell’s competitive edge: “I got open, I caught the ball and he told me my route was trash." Despite this, Smith was quick to commend his teammate, "I like it, though. He's a great guy. I like what I'm seeing."
A.J. Brown also appreciates Mitchell's competitive spirit. “That's me kind of picking a fight with him, trying to get him going. He likes to talk trash at me. But I'm just picking a fight with him to make practices very interesting. But he's not fazed. He's not fazed,” Brown said. This ability to remain unaffected and focused has endeared Mitchell to his teammates and coaches alike.
High Praise and a Historic Start
Darius Slay, one of the seasoned voices in the Eagles' secondary, admires Mitchell's style. “Oh yeah. I love it. It’s pride and like chill. It’s not loud. He just goes to him and is like, next. Line it back up. It’s smooth. That’s how I do it. I love it,” Slay remarked.
Mitchell's versatility has been a critical aspect of his early success. “He's moving around a lot—playing inside, going outside,” noted Smith. This ability to adapt and compete at various positions has made practices more challenging and enjoyable for his teammates. Smith summed it up, saying, “The versatility is there. It's fun going against him.”
As the Eagles prepare for the upcoming NFL season, Mitchell is on track to make history. He will become the first rookie cornerback to start prior to Week 5 since Eric Allen in 1988. This milestone emphasizes the trust the coaching staff has in Mitchell’s abilities and his readiness to compete at the highest level right off the bat.
A New Swagger in the Secondary
The addition of Mitchell, alongside C.J. Gardner-Johnson, has injected a new sense of swagger into the Eagles' secondary. It's a combination of youth and confidence that could prove invaluable as the season progresses. "Q, he's going to be locked in and he's going to talk his talk,” predicted Brown, highlighting Mitchell's confidence and readiness.
Mitchell's journey from a hopeful rookie to a starter in the Eagles' defense serves as a reminder of the impact a fresh, committed talent can make. His trash-talking and competitive spirit have brought a new dynamic to the training camp, making it more engaging and intense for all involved.
As the season approaches, the spotlight will undoubtedly remain on Quinyon Mitchell. With his remarkable adaptability, spirited performances, and undeniable confidence, Mitchell is set to be a significant contributor to the Eagles' defense, embodying the new swagger and competitive edge of the team.