Expectations for Quinyon Mitchell, Eagles' Top Rookies in Preseason
The Philadelphia Eagles made plenty of notable additions early in the offseason. They hired new offensive and defensive coordinators in Kellen Moore and Vic Fangio, respectively. They also added the likes of C.J. Gardner-Johnson, Saquon Barkley, Bryce Huff and Devin White via free agency or trade.
While most playoff-caliber teams have more room for experienced veterans to make an impact than for rookies, the Eagles also stand to get some early contributions from this year's draft class.
General manager Howie Roseman got solid value over draft weekend, but he also targeted needs in the early round.
Fans will get their first real look at Philadelphia's top rookies when its preseason begins on August 9. Here, we'll dive into the Eagles' top three draft selections and some realistic preseason expectations for each of them.
CB Quinyon Mitchell
1 of 3
Round 1 (No. 22 Overall)
After ranking 31st in passing yards allowed in 2023, the Eagles made sure to prioritize their secondary in the offseason. Philly used its first-round selection on former Toledo cornerback Quinyon Mitchell.
Mitchell's stock soared after an impressive Senior Bowl week, and while the jump from MAC competition to the NFL could take a little time, his upside is tremendous.
That said, Mitchell may not be a full-time starter in his inaugural campaign. According to Jeff McLane of the Philadelphia Inquirer, the Eagles are more focused on developing the rookie's versatility and man-coverage technique right now.
"Mitchell did get snaps with the first defense in dime personnel as an inside defender," McLane wrote on Saturday. "The Eagles aren't pushing him into a starting role, but they feel he's comfortable enough to learn multiple disciplines."
With Darius Slay, Isaiah Rodgers, Eli Ricks and Kelee Ringo also on the roster, there's no real need to rush the rookie.
Expect Mitchell to largely be a subpackage player and second-team starter during the preseason—though he'll likely get a chance to start the finale. His elite physical ability and terrific ball skills (18 passes defended in 2023) should shine through, though, and may force Philadelphia to consider speeding up his timeline.
CB Cooper DeJean
2 of 3
Round 2 (No. 40 Overall)
The Eagles doubled down on the cornerback position, using their second-round pick on former Iowa star Cooper DeJean.
DeJean projects as a pro-ready player with the versatility needed to play cornerback safety or at nickel. That should get him on the field early, even if he doesn't start as a rookie.
"Though DeJean has the size and physicality to play safety in the NFL, he has the ball skills and movement skills to play cornerback," Cory Giddings of the Bleacher Report Scouting Department wrote. "...he's one of the top cornerback prospects in this year's draft class and has added return ability that most don't have."
Unfortunately, fans may have to wait for DeJean shine According to ESPN's Jeremy Fowler, DeJean suffered a hamstring injury last week that is expected to sideline him for three weeks.
That timeline puts DeJean on track to play in the preseason opener, though the Eagles will likely be cautious. Fans should only expect a few snaps in Week 1, if any, though DeJean should see a larger role with the second- and third-teams and on special teams in the second and third exhibition games.
Edge Jalyx Hunt
3 of 3
Round 3 (No. 94 Overall)
While Mitchell and DeJean both have the potential to make a big impact during the 2024 season, third-round pick Jalyx Hunt probably won't see a ton of playing time. The Houston Christian has some impressive physical traits but is about to see a massive jump in the level of competition.
Simply put, Hunt (6'4", 252 lbs) was a traits-based pick who is going to need time to develop.
The good news is that the Eagles can afford to be patient with their newest edge-rusher. Even after trading Haason Reddick, Philly has an impressive pass-rushing rotation—headlined by Josh Sweat, Brandon Graham, Nolan Smith Jr. and newcomer Bryce Huff.
Smith was a first-round pick in 2023 and only saw the field occasionally as a rookie. Hunt will not be thrust into a prominent role.
During the preseason open, Hunt is likely to play primarily with the third and fourth units. He may get more snaps with the second team in Week 2 and could have an outside chance of earning a starting nod for the finale. Philly's main goal with Hunt will be getting him comfortable enough to provide situational help if needed.
Expectations for Hunt should be tempered, though fans are likely to get a great look at his athletic potential against opposing players who are battling just to make NFL rosters.
.jpg?w=256 "Colts Jaguars Football")
.jpg?w=480 "Colts Jaguars Football")
