In 2022, a big part of the Philadelphia Eagles' success was attributable to their defense. Their pass rush carried most of that load. In 2023, that same unit fell off a cliff under Sean Desai and Matt Patricia. This time, Vic Fangio's defense isn't only the best in football. It's one of the best in the history of the Eagles franchise, which is saying a lot.
Much has been made about how the influx of Georgia Bulldogs has been crucial to the success of the Eagles' defense, but that doesn't tell the entire story.
Two rookies in particular have really stamped the roster. What's most exciting is they can only get better.
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The instant impact of two rookie cornerbacks has helped propel the Eagles defense, and team, to new heights.
The Eagles drafted Quinyon Mitchell out of Toledo in the first round of the 2024 NFL Draft. Cooper DeJean (lowa) was taken during the second. They were seen slam dunk picks for a secondary in dire need of help.
What we didn't know, was that they were actually tape measure home run picks. They were jackpot additions made by Howie Roseman.
Simply put, the two rookies have been incredible all things considered. Mitchell has looked like arguably the best shutdown corner in the game. The pair look like a solid duo if not the best in the game (though DeJean is a slot guy). It's been remarkable to watch.
Q and Coop's rise is also eerily similar to what we saw out of two rookie cornerbacks who helped kickstart a dynasty many moons ago. Entering the 1981 season, the San Francisco 49ers were one of football's worst franchises. Quarterback Joe Montana and head coach Bill Walsh came into their own that year and helped propel them to a dynasty and the title of "Team of the 1980s".
The Niners also had one heck of a 1981 Draft. They selected cornerbacks Ronnie Lott in the first round and Eric Wright in the second. Sound familiar? Both cornerbacks (along with fellow rookie safety Carlton Williamson) had an instant impact on San Fran's success.
Wright made a criminally-forgotten touchdown-saving tackle after 'The Catch' in the NFC Championship Game. Lott flashed his future Hall of Fame talent early.
Lott would eventually transition to safety and become the greatest to play the position. That helped the 49ers continue their dynasty. The point is this. While these Eagles rookies have done nothing short of incredible, they have a chance to become legendary.
Will Quinyon Mitchell and Cooper DeJean help power a run of greatness for the franchise? It's impossible to say right now; however, helping lead Philly to a win in Super Bowl LIX against Patrick Mahomes in the Kansas City Chiefs in their rookie year would be a great start. Look no further than the 1981 San Francisco 49ers if you need evidence.
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