Nothing is more important at this point in the Philadelphia Eagles football schedule than updates on number changes. Okay, maybe that’s not true, but it’s interesting to talk about.
In recent months, we’ve seen CJ Gardner-Johnson rock his “Black Mamba” as he decided to wear the number 8 jersey to honor the late Kobe Bryant. Another member of the secondary has decided to make the switch as well. Quinyon Mitchell has decided to rock his college jersey number.
Some of you may remember that it was worn by a franchise legend and a Super Bowl hero.
For some, it’s “just a number.” That’s not how it usually works with players. They can often tell you the story behind a jersey number and why they chose to wear it.
Quinyon Mitchell switched from number 30 to his college jersey number 27. As you can imagine, everyone seemed to notice. No disrespect to the recently retired Zech McPhearson, but if number 27 makes you think of Malcolm Jenkins, we won’t be mad at you.
#Eagle Rookie CB Quinyon Mitchell changed his jersey number from 30 to 27: pic.twitter.com/L5KXOv51jB
— Jeff McLane (@Jeff_McLane) 28 August 2024
Quinyon Mitchell has moved to 27th place. pic.twitter.com/cccDptX55F
— Cayden Steele (@cayden_steele19) 28 August 2024
Further photo evidence: pic.twitter.com/jBzbGIs9K0
— EJ Smith (@EJSmith94) 28 August 2024
Perhaps best remembered for his knockout shot on Brandin Cooks in Super Bowl LII (and the leadership qualities he showed as a team captain in Philly), Malcolm Jenkins has a place in every Birds fan’s heart. He was a phenomenal safety who played defense and special teams and never missed a snap. He could play deep and/or get down and guard receivers in the slot position.
In six seasons as an Eagle, he never missed a single game, playing 96 in the regular season and another six in the playoffs. 515 tackles, 5.5 sacks, 12 forced fumbles, 11 interceptions, 58 pass breakups and four defensive TDs are part of his incredible resume.
Normally, we wouldn’t compare rookies to a three-time Pro Bowler and 2010 All-Pro Second Team player who won the Super Bowl. For once, we can break that rule. Mitchell will be a phenomenal addition.
Honing his skills in practice against AJ Brown and DeVonta Smith will help, as will the guidance of Vic Fangio. With Mitchell’s speed and instincts, Philly may have hit the jackpot.
