In 2024, the Philadelphia Eagles’ defense saw a revival, thanks in large part to two rookie cornerbacks. It brings to mind a couple from the past.
In 2022, a significant portion of the Philadelphia Eagles’ achievements was due to their defense. Their pass rush handled the majority of that responsibility. In 2023, that same unit plummeted dramatically under Sean Desai and Matt Patricia. This time, Vic Fangio’s defense is not just the top in football. It’s among the greatest in the history of the Eagles organization, which is quite significant.
There has been significant discussion about how the arrival of Georgia Bulldogs has been vital to the success of the Eagles’ defense, but that doesn’t convey the full narrative.
The immediate influence of two first-year cornerbacks has boosted the Eagles defense and the team to new levels.
The Eagles selected Quinyon Mitchell from Toledo in the first round of the 2024 NFL Draft. Cooper DeJean (Iowa) was selected in the second round. They were regarded as slam dunk choices for a secondary urgently in need of assistance.
What we were unaware of was that they were, in fact, tape measure home run selections. They were winning enhancements brought in by Howie Roseman.
In simple terms, both newcomers have been amazing when everything is taken into account. Mitchell has appeared to be perhaps the top shutdown corner in the league. The duo appears to be a strong combination, if not the top one in the game (although DeJean plays in the slot). It’s been amazing to observe.
The emergence of Q and Coop closely resembles the early impact of two rookie cornerbacks who played a crucial role in initiating a dynasty long ago. At the start of the 1981 season, the San Francisco 49ers were among the least successful franchises in football. Quarterback Joe Montana and head coach Bill Walsh found their stride that year, contributing significantly to the establishment of a dynasty and earning the designation of “Team of the 1980s.”
The Niners also had an incredible Draft in 1981. They chose cornerbacks Ronnie Lott in the first round and Eric Wright in the second round. Does that ring a bell? Both cornerbacks (together with rookie safety Carlton Williamson) made an immediate impact on San Fran’s achievements.
Wright executed a tackle that saved a touchdown, which has been criminally overlooked, following ‘The Catch’ in the NFC Championship Game. Lott displayed his future Hall of Fame skills right from the start.
Lott would ultimately shift to safety and become the best to ever play that position. That assisted the 49ers in maintaining their dynasty. The main idea is this. Although these Eagles rookies have been nothing less than remarkable, they have an opportunity to achieve legendary status.
Will Quinyon Mitchell and Cooper DeJean boost a surge of excellence for the franchise? It’s tough to determine at this moment; nonetheless, guiding Philly to a victory in Super Bowl LIX over Patrick Mahomes and the Kansas City Chiefs during their inaugural year would be an excellent beginning. If you require proof, look to the 1981 San Francisco 49ers.
