Eagles’ rookie duo Quinyon Mitchell and Cooper DeJean dominated against Cleveland Browns

The Philadelphia Eagles’ rookie cornerback duo of Quinyon Mitchell and Cooper DeJean proved their mettle in Sunday’s matchup against the Cleveland Browns.

From the opening whistle, Mitchell and DeJean were dialed in, going head-to-head with Cleveland’s receiving corps. The Browns tested the two rookies, targeting them a total of seven times. However, the young Eagles cornerbacks allowed just two receptions while holding Cleveland to a mere 24 yards through the air.

Neither Mitchell nor DeJean allowed a single touchdown, holding their ground and ensuring that no receiver got past them for a big play. Their combined effort forced Deshaun Watson into a passer rating of just 56.2 when targeting the pair.

This type of performance is rare for two first-year players, especially for the Eagles. I don’t think I’ve ever seen a rookie corner play well for the Eagles and I’ve been alive for 28 years now.

Quinyon Mitchell and Cooper DeJean have clearly found a rhythm, complementing each other’s play styles and demonstrating advanced football IQ, something typically expected from veteran defensive backs.

DeJean managed to record a sack as well, making him the first white corner to do so in over 20 years.

Cooper DeJean times the snap well off the edge and would have had the sack clean if he didn’t just try to throw a shoulder into Watson. pic.twitter.com/VdugIkcYJZ

— Shane Haff (@ShaneHaffNFL) October 13, 2024

Mitchell almost recorded his first career interception, only for CJ Gardner-Johnson to come in and break it up.

Quinyon Mitchell almost had his first career interception.

C.J. Gardner-Johnson broke it up.#FlyEaglesFly #Eagles pic.twitter.com/w6XMgE1enQ

— ☆𝘏𝘰𝘸𝘪𝘦𝘙𝘰𝘴𝘦𝘎𝘖𝘋☆ (@JalenCarterDPOY) October 13, 2024

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After the game, the camaraderie between the two rookies was on full display as they swapped jerseys—a sign of mutual respect and a celebration of their shared success on the field. Mitchell, the mastermind behind the gesture, plans to frame DeJean’s jersey as a reminder of the bond they’ve formed and the memorable game they played together.

Seeing two Eagles rookies ball out together is a beautiful thing

Quinyon Mitchell and Cooper DeJan swapped jerseys after the game. It was Mitchell’s idea. He said he’s going to frame DeJean’s jersey.

— Dave Zangaro (@DZangaroNBCS) October 13, 2024

If this performance is any indication, Quinyon Mitchell and Cooper DeJean have the potential to become one of the most formidable cornerback duos in the league. As they continue to grow and develop, opposing offenses will have to think twice before throwing their way.