Week 1 is here and it is beautiful! The Eagles kick off their 2024 season against a Packers team on the rise. More interesting is that the game is on a Friday and is in Brazil. Most interesting (to me, at least) is the Eagles rookies getting the first regular season snaps of their careers. Here are some things I am keeping an eye on in this exciting debut for Philadelphia’s first years.
The defensive backs, of course…
The most deserving of intrigue among the Eagles rookies are their two talented defensive backs.
Quinyon Mitchell figures to start at outside cornerback opposite Darius Slay with the potential to play snaps in the slot as well. The Packers have a handful of really solid receivers, none being an easy mark for a rookie cornerback. On top of that, Jordan Love is an emergent quarterback and could really challenge the Eagles secondary. Quinyon Mitchell has a great chance to assert himself in Week 1.
Cooper DeJean got little play in preseason as he dealt with an injury, but he did flash in the final contest on limited snaps. His role on the defense is still undefined. With James Bradberry on injured reserve, DeJean could provide depth at both safety and nickel.
Is Jeremiah Trotter Junior going to see defensive snaps?
Devin White was ruled out, meaning the starting inside linebackers will be Zack Baun and Nakobe Dean. That being said, that increases the chance we see Jeremiah Trotter Junior in sub-packages. Baun is less proven in space and the Eagles may go away from him in 4-2-5 looks and get Trotter on the field.
