Key Highlights
- Eagles cornerbacks Cooper DeJean and Quinyon Mitchell both named 1st-team all-pro for the first time.
- The Eagles become only the second team to have two 1st-team all-pro cornerbacks in the same year, following a 2019 honor by the Ravens’ Marlon Humphrey and Marcus Peters.
- DeJean is the youngest 1st-team all-pro for the Eagles since tight end Charle Young in 1973.
- Mitchell and DeJean were both named to their first Pro Bowl team last month, highlighting their standout performances.
The Eagles’ Defensive Duo: A Breakdown of Their All-Pro Honors
Eagles cornerbacks Cooper DeJean and Quinyon Mitchell have been honored with the highest individual accolade for NFL players in 2026, as they were both named to the Associated Press All-Pro team. This marks a significant milestone for the Eagles, as it is only the second time in franchise history that two cornerbacks have achieved this honor within the same season.
Young and Talented: Cooper DeJean’s Breakthrough
At just 22 years old, Cooper DeJean has become a cornerstone of the Eagles’ defensive unit. His selection as the youngest 1st-team all-pro since Charle Young in 1973 is not only a testament to his individual talent but also a nod to his potential for future greatness within the league.
DeJean’s success this season has been attributed to his versatility, particularly in the slot position. According to Pro Football Focus, he played 657 snaps in the slot and 226 at outside corner. His ability to excel in both positions underscores his value as a defensive player for the Eagles.
Proving Himself: Quinyon Mitchell’s All-Pro Season
Quinyon Mitchell, 24, is the first cornerback of that age from the Eagles to be named all-pro. His selection comes after an impressive season where he had two interceptions in the playoffs last year and was selected for his first Pro Bowl team. This accolade further cements his reputation as a standout defensive back.
Mitchell’s statistics are particularly noteworthy, with a 2nd-lowest defensive passer rating this year among cornerbacks who were targeted at least 20 times.
His stats also include 17 pass breakups and a fumble recovery. His performance has not only bolstered the Eagles’ defense but also earned him recognition on an elite level.
Historical Context: A Milestone for the Eagles
The selection of both DeJean and Mitchell is a remarkable achievement for the Eagles, as it highlights their commitment to developing young talent. The team drafted them in consecutive rounds last year, marking 2024 as the first draft in which they have selected two 1st-team all-pros since 2002.
DeJean and Mitchell’s performances this season have not only earned them individual accolades but also contributed to the Eagles’ overall defensive success. The team allowed an NFL-low 56.8 percent completion percentage, further emphasizing their impact on the field.
Expert Analysis: A New Era for the Eagles’ Defense
The selection of DeJean and Mitchell as 1st-team all-pros is a clear indication that the Eagles are entering a new era of defensive excellence. Their performances this season have not only earned them individual accolades but also placed them among the best in the league.
As the Eagles prepare for future seasons, their selection as 1st-team all-pros will undoubtedly provide motivation and inspiration to continue pushing boundaries on defense. The recognition received by DeJean and Mitchell is a powerful reminder of the talent and potential within the team’s defensive unit.
The Associated Press All-Pro team was selected by a national panel of 50 football writers and broadcasters, highlighting the importance and significance of these honors. As the Eagles look to build on this success in the coming seasons, DeJean and Mitchell will undoubtedly be key players in shaping their future defensive strategy.