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Eagles' Rising Stars Mitchell and DeJean Elevate Secondary Ahead of New Season
4 Aug
Summary
- Cornerback Quinyon Mitchell and nickel/safety Cooper DeJean expected to make Pro Bowl
- DeJean's versatility allows him to play safety in base defense
- Mitchell's blanket coverage shuts down top receivers like A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith
As the Philadelphia Eagles prepare for the upcoming 2025 NFL season, their secondary is expected to be even better than last year's top-ranked pass defense, despite the loss of veterans Darius Slay, C.J. Gardner-Johnson, and Isaiah Rodgers.
The key to the Eagles' defensive backfield is the emergence of two rising stars: cornerback Quinyon Mitchell and nickel/safety Cooper DeJean. Both players are poised to make the Pro Bowl this season, with their standout performances in training camp showcasing their exceptional skills.
Mitchell, a first-round draft pick in 2024, has taken his game to new heights, blanketing the Eagles' star receivers A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith in practice. Meanwhile, DeJean, a second-round selection, has impressed with his versatility, playing both nickel and safety in defensive coordinator Vic Fangio's scheme.
Fangio's defensive system has unlocked DeJean's potential, allowing him to make plays all over the secondary. During one instance, DeJean snuffed out a route that had given the Eagles trouble the previous season, showcasing his instincts and adaptability.
The combination of Mitchell's lockdown coverage and DeJean's versatility has the Eagles' coaching staff excited about the potential of their secondary. With the two young defensive backs leading the way, the Eagles' pass defense is poised to be even more dominant in the upcoming season.
