Quinyon Mitchell's role in the Eagles defensive scheme may have been revealed

Journalism is sort of like being a detective. Okay, maybe it isn't that serious, but hang in there. We're going somewhere. Ever since he walked the stage in Detroit as the Philadelphia Eagles' 22nd-overall selection during the most recent NFL Draft, we've asked ourselves the same question. We've racked our brains over when how soon we'll see Quinyon Mitchell on the field playing in a game that counts.

We may vary on the answer. Most of us believe the same thing. None of us think it will be that long before it happens.

Philly doesn't take defensive backs in Round 1 very often. Before they scribbled Quinyon's name on a draft card this past April. They had done so only three teams. We hadn't seen that happen since 2002 when Lito Sheppard was the choice.

This time around, the decision was to load up at the position as they also selected another DB, Cooper DeJean in Round 2. Coop missed a few weeks because of injury but has since returned to action. His absence placed an even brighter spotlight on Mitchell, one he has thrived in. But, it has also forced us to ask the same questions again.

When are we going to see this guy on the field? What will his role be when he is out there?

The Eagles may have given us an indication of how they intend to deploy Quinyon Mitchell.

Training camp nears its end. As expected, the competition at cornerback has been intense. We've seen Mitchell, Kelee Ringo, and Isaiah Rodgers all take snaps on the outside. All have been good. We've heard Vic Fangio say the coaching staff may have to play nickel to get him on the field. We've seen Q practice there, but his role might be bigger come Week 1.

Ringo and Rogers have looked good on the outside. Both have also had brief moments where we have seen them take a step backward. Both will make the team, but recent practices might have revealed how Mitchell will be used.

Don't be shocked if he is the starter on the outside opposite Darius Slay in base sets. Don't be alarmed when and if he slides inside to occupy the slot corner role when Philly morphs into its nickel package with five DBs.

There's a desire to get the first-rounder on the field early, and signs seem to be pointing towards him being a very good player. He is certainly battle -tested having taken on both A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith in practice.

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