After another impressive performance on Thursday Night Football, Quinyon Mitchell should be the favorite for Defensive Rookie of the Year. He is already one of the elite cornerbacks in the game, having locked up a number of elite receivers. This time he silenced Commanders number one receiver Terry McLaurin, who only caught one pass. That one reception came when Mitchell was not covering him. This kind of stuff is becoming a weekly occurrence for the rookie out of Toledo.
Complete Package
If you designed an NFL cornerback in a lab, it would look something like Quinyon Mitchell. He has ideal size, speed and change of direction ability for the position. Mitchell is also fearless and not afraid to talk trash, which is a trait many of the best corners have. Heading into the game, Mitchell’s matchup with McLaurin was one of the big pregame narratives. The rookie rose to the occasion and shutout the star receiver. He even earned plaudits from McLaurin himself, who said he didn’t play like a rookie.
The emergence of Mitchell, as well as fellow rookie corner Cooper DeJean is a testament to the coaching staff and front office. Vic Fangio has overseen a massive defensive improvement this season. Since the bye week, the Eagles defense has only allowed over 20 points once in six games. They have been the best defense in football since the bye, and Mitchell is a massive part of that. Mitchell was widely considered a top 15 talent in the 2024 draft, but fell to the Eagles at pick 22 due to the early run on offensive players. Howie Roseman was able to take advantage of the draft board, and watch an elite talent fall into his lap. That is what makes Roseman an elite executive. He was able to steal a blue chip talent at pick 22.
DROY Worthy
The performance against the Commanders emphasized the idea that Mitchell should be defensive rookie of the year. He is only rookie who is playing at an all pro level. While he has yet to record an interception, his ability to lock up high end receivers cannot be overlooked. His main competitor for the award is Rams pass rusher Jared Verse. Verse has had an outstanding rookie season in his own right. However, few would argue that he has been one of the best edge rushers in all of football. His 4.5 sacks represent good, but not eye popping production. Meanwhile, Mitchell has been one of the best corners in the league, getting the upper hand against receivers such as CeeDee Lamb and Ja’Marr Chase.
Defensive Rookie of the Year voters tend to favor pass rushers, with only three corners winning the award since 2000. Mitchell’s lack of ball production might also hurt his case, as corners with big interception numbers tend to get more publicity. However, the eye test will show you that Mitchell is the deserving winner. Not many corners establish themselves as lockdown CB1 types as a rookie. Mitchell has done that, and deserves recognition for what he has achieved in his rookie season.
Main Photo Courtesy of Bill Streicher – Imagn Images
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