When you look at the players added to the roster during the draft, it would appear that new Eagles defensive coordinator Vic Fangio had a voice in the draft room to select players that fit his system, and maybe added one of his red star players (Jalyx Hunt).
The offense was also addressed, which should please new offensive coordinator Kellen Moore. The Eagles added an exciting receiver who could potentially develop into WR3 while also adding value as a punt and or kick returner to the team. They also selected a dynamic running back who could see the field as soon as week one.
Meet the 9 players the Eagles selected in the 2024 NFL Draft!
Meet your Eagles Draft class of 2024
Round One Pick 22- CB Toledo, Quinyon Mitchell
A hallmark of the Eagle’s recent drafts has been selecting extremely competitive players. Quinyon is tirelessly willing to compete during the game and on the practice field. When asked who the first Quarterback was he wanted to intercept, his answer was the best.
“Jalen Hurts”
Quinyon has great length and hands that he often uses to punch the ball out and play through the receiver’s arms. His 4.33 speed allows him to run with anyone on the field while also providing high-volume PBUs (37 pass breakups over the last 2 years).
Mitchell is also a very sure tackler and brings receivers down fast and efficiently when they do make a catch. He allowed a paltry 48 yards after the catch during the 2023 season (not including Championship or Bowl games) and per PFF allowed an equally low 51.1% pass rating when targeted; 27 rec on 62 targets.
Quinyon led the Rockets in PBUs in 2023 with 18 and is Toledo University’s all-time leader in pass breakups with 46. That productivity is something that is bound to appeal to Eagles’ fans after a year where turnovers in the secondary were scarce.
Round Two Pick 40- DB, Cooper DeJean, Iowa
Cooper is a defensive back chess piece on the field and will be likely used as such under Eagles DC Vic Fangio. He’s so versatile and has the skill set to be used outside, inside, in the box vs the run, as a blitzer.
“So, you put me on the field, I’m going to go play football. Whether it’s inside, outside, at safety, or whatever it is, this is a game I love to play. As long as I am on the field, out there, I’ll be happy, and I’m going to give it my all every time I’m on the field.” – Eagles DB Cooper DeJean
At 6’1 208 lbs, Cooper possesses the size needed to match up against almost anyone on the field. He showed great instincts at Iowa with elite ball skills. DeJean had 7 interceptions in college and returned three for touchdowns. Per PFF Cooper did not allow a touchdown in coverage all season.
Cooper is also a threat on special teams where as a punt returner he ran a touchdown back this past season. It will be interesting to see if Philadelphia is willing to use their second-round pick in that role.
Round Three Pick 94 — EDGE, Jalyx Hunt, Houston Christian
Hunt is going to be fun to watch develop. He has enough speed to win as a pass rusher from the edge and he has some bend getting around the corner. Jalyx has an unrelenting motor, good length & strength. His athleticism gives him great speed when getting to QB while also being mobile enough to drop in the flat in coverage.
As a former defensive back, he has an elite understanding of the game. Jalyx sheds blocks well and uses angles to get to the QB while utilizing his speed and burst. Great length and is extremely athletic. He is a raw prospect with a lot of upside! Reportedly, Eagles defensive coordinator Vic Fangio wanted him on the team.
Round Four Pick 127- RB, Will Shipley, Clemson
Will is already a very good blocker, which will get him on the field sooner rather than later. He has great hands and will be a reliable RB2/3. He has not shown a lot of explosive play ability, but he does move the chains utilizing good vision, agility, and a quick burst. Shipley will make a difference in the Eagles’ passing game via his ability to get open and be elusive in the open field and while also providing pass protection.
Round Five Pick 152- WR Texas A&M, Ainias Smith
Ainias has the versatility to be an above-average player as a receiver, runner, and in special teams as a PR/ or KR. Smith plays quick while being elusive, and creating space. He always seems to find soft spots in defenses and is very aggressive in fighting for the ball. Ainias is exceptionally talented at gaining yards after the catch where his strong will and determination to keep moving forward jumps out every week. That same grit also shows up when he does not have the ball, as he is a very willing and able blocker. A very tough player. Eagles fans should be excited to watch him play.
Round Five Pick 155- LB, Jeremiah Trotter Jr., Clemson
The Eagles did not select Jeremiah Trotter Jr due to bloodlines (sure it played a role) but because he is athletic, and displays elite awareness and route reading ability, while also being an effective blitzer, indicated by his 5.5 sack total last year. He plays bigger than his size and is very mature and driven. The Uber competitive Trotter Jr. is elite vs the run, shedding blocks and reading and reacting well while diagnosing plays. Jeremiah is high energy, while also being disciplined. He has elite balance and flexibility.
Round Five Pick 172- IOL, Trevor Keegan, Michigan
Trevor uses his massive size to seek and destroy anyone along the way as he plows forward in the run game. He is effectively aggressive and uses his leverage and hands well. A very reliable pass protector, Keegan cleans up the pocket exceptionally well and is always looking for someone else to block. Sweeping the pocket clean is something he was known for at Michigan. The former Michigan team Captain is fundamentally strong, displays a high football IQ, and is a powerful guy, with a big toolbox of traits
Round Six Pick 185 — WR, Johnny Wilson, FSU
Wilson is 6’7, 237 lbs, and fast for his size, reportedly hitting 21.3 mph! His 36′ arms, 10 1/4 hands, and 10–5 broad provide a wide catch radius. He owns 50/50 balls and could be a BIG red-zone threat. Johnny is a surprisingly effective deep threat with his deceptive speed. This was a great value pick for the Eagles that will allow him time to develop his route-running & refine his hand skills.
Round Six Pick 190- C, Dylan McMahon, NC State
Legendary Eagles center Jason Kelce was selected in the 6th round with pick 191, Dylan in the 6th round with pick 190, and Dylan hopes to follow in Kelce’s footsteps.
“I would say he’s the best center to ever do it”
Dylan does a great job at getting to the next level, something the Eagles value in their center and guards as we have all seen with Jason Kelce, Cam Jurgens, and Landon Dickerson. His short-shuttle time, 4.33 seconds, was the quickest of all offensive interior linemen that have been drafted over the last decade. He is also versatile having played Center and Guard at NC State.
As always, thank you for reading!
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AP Photo/Carlos Osorio
