Terry McLaurin’s to Eagles’ Quinyon Mitchell Shutting Him Down
Philadelphia Eagles rookie cornerback Quinyon Mitchell had a big game in the Eagles’ Week 11 victory over the Washington Commanders, putting himself in the running for Defensive Rookie of the Year honors.
Tasked with covering Washington’s top wide receiver, Terry McLaurin, Mitchell provided a pass defensive masterclass, completely neutralizing one of the league’s most dangerous offensive threats.
According to Next Gen Stats, McLaurin ran 20 routes against Mitchell but was not targeted once, resulting in no catches and no yardage. Mitchell completely shut down the offense, demonstrating his ability to anticipate routes, maintain tight coverage, and impede passing lanes throughout the night.
His performance was so overpowering that McLaurin had to move his location on the field to avoid Mitchell’s covering.
After Philadelphia’s 26-18 victory, McLaurin presented flowers to the rookie DB. “He’s a good corner,” McLaurin told The Philadelphia Inquirer’s E.J. Smith, adding, “He doesn’t really play like a rookie.”
Quinyon Mitchell’s dominance against Terry McLaurin may be added to the growing list of shutdown performances.
Mitchell’s outstanding performance versus McLaurin is part of a larger pattern of high-level performances in his debut season. He has routinely reduced the performance of top-tier receivers, notably keeping Atlanta Falcons’ Drake London to a single reception for five yards, Chris Olave of the New Orleans Saints to two catches for 23 yards, and Ja’Marr Chase of the Cincinnati Bengals to two catches for 19 yards. Mitchell’s versatility and ability to manage varied receiving skills around the league has been a bright spot for Philadelphia this season.
The Eagles’ choice to choose Mitchell in the first round of the 2024 NFL draft was intended to strengthen a struggling secondary.
