Eagles rookie Quinyon Mitchell will now wear a franchise legend's number

Nothing is more important at this juncture of the Philadelphia Eagles football calendar than updates about number switches. Okay, maybe that isn't true, but it is interesting to talk about.

In months past, we have seen C.J. Gardner-Johnson get his 'Black Mamba' on as he decided to wear the number 8 jersey to honor the late Kobe Bryant. Another member of the secondary has determined he will also make his switch. Quinyon Mitchell has decided to rock his college jersey number.

Some of you may remember it was worn by a franchise legend and Super Bowl hero.

Quinyon Mitchell, like Malcolm Jenkins, will wear the Number 27 Eagles jersey.

To some, 'it's just a number'. That typically isn't how it works with players. They often can tell you the story behind a jersey number and why the elected to wear it.

Quinyon Mitchell has transitioned from the number 30 to his college jersey number, 27. As you might imagine, everyone seemed to notice. No disrespect is intended to recently departed Zech McPhearson, but if the number 27 makes you think of Malcolm Jenkins, we won't be upset with you.

Probably best remembered for his knockout shot of Brandin Cooks in Super Bowl LII (and the leadership he showed while a team captain in Philly). Malcolm Jenkins holds a place in the heart of every Birds fan. He was a phenomenal safety who played on defense and special teams while never missing a snap. He could play deep and/or come down and guard receivers in the slot position.

In six seasons as an Eagle, he never missed a game. He played 96 during the regular season and another six during the playoffs. 515 tackles, 5.5 sacks, 12 forced fumbles, 11 interceptions, 58 pass breakups, and four defensive TDs are part of what turned out to be one heck of a resume.

We typically wouldn't compare rookies to a three-time Pro Bowler and 2010 Second-Team All-Pro who won Super Bowls. We can break that rule just this once. Mitchell is going to be a phenomenal addition.

Honing his skills in practice vs A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith will help. So will the tutelage of Vic Fangio. With Mitchell's speed and instincts, Philly may have hit the jackpot.

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