The Eagles’ 2024 draft acquisitions are reminiscent of their 2002 class, which helped push them to the Super Bowl shortly after. Casual observers will notice Lito Shepard (Round 1, 26th overall), Michael Lewis (Round 2, 58th), Sheldon Brown (Round 2, 59th), Brian Westbrook (Round 3, 26th) ) may not remember the impact. 91) But die-hard Eagles fans understand how this group helped the team consistently compete with the league’s powerhouses and reach Super Bowl XXXIX after three seasons. Masu.
Last season, Philadelphia’s defense ranked 31st against the pass, 26th overall and 30th in points allowed, and the team stalled in the wild-card round. This season, the Eagles rank first in the NFL in both passing and overall defense, and third in points allowed. And cornerbacks Quinyon Mitchell (Round 1, No. 22) and Cooper DeJean (Round 2, No. 40) are leading the defensive resurgence with their stifling coverage skills. The duo’s intelligence, athleticism, and versatility allow coordinator Vic Fangio to throw a blanket on the opposing passing game, utilizing a variety of zone and man “match” concepts that keep the quarterback guessing in the pocket. is completed. Mitchell is tied for first among all rookies in passes defensed this season (12), and DeJean is tied for first as a defender in total target EPA (minus 28.3), according to Next Generation Stats (minimum 200 coverage snaps). He ranks second in the NFL. .
Jayrix Hunt (Round 3, No. 94) played only 22.5 percent of the Eagles’ defensive snaps, but showed disruptive potential as a rotation player, with 21 tackles, 1.5 sacks, and 2 forced fumbles. , and recorded one tackle for loss. . Hunt is a likely starter on a team that is stocking its bullpen with pass-rushing specialists, and the addition to the pipeline of the Cornell and Houston Christian product is the first time general manager Howie Roseman had added his own roster years earlier. This is another example of how the Needs repair.
If running back Will Shipley (Round 4, No. 127) hits his stride as a Brian Westbrook clone and receiver, Johnny Wilson (Round 6, No. 185) — has been targeted just 10 times this season. But his first career TD catch — as he continues to improve, the Eagles are in good position and should be ready for a long run as a title contender.
