Eagles Identify Biggest Need In NFL Draft

From 2002 to 2023, the Philadelphia Eagles largely avoided selecting defensive backs early in the draft. Instead, as their secondary struggled against opposing passing attacks, the team opted to strengthen the cornerback position through free agency.

That strategy changed in 2024. The Eagles prioritized their secondary with back-to-back early draft picks, selecting Quinyon Mitchell and Cooper DeJean. Both rookies made an immediate impact, helping Philadelphia finish first in pass defense for the second time in three seasons—a stunning 30-team jump from the previous year. Their presence transformed the team’s defensive approach and played a crucial role in the Eagles’ dominant Super Bowl LIX victory over the Kansas City Chiefs.

The emergence of DeJean and Mitchell has also reshaped Philadelphia’s roster-building strategy. No longer reliant on signing aging veterans or taking chances on former starters, the Eagles can now invest in developing their young talent, ensuring long-term stability in the secondary.