Philly Leader

Quinyon Mitchell made history by becoming the first cornerback drafted by the Philadelphia Eagles in the first round of the NFL Draft since Lito Sheppard in 2002. At that time, Mitchell was only nine months old. Reflecting on this milestone, Sheppard expressed his thoughts during a conversation with PhiladelphiaEagles.com.

"It's awesome, I know everyone is probably tired of hearing my name," said Sheppard. "I was blessed to have the opportunity to play there and do as well as I did for as long as I did. The City of Philadelphia has been awesome to me, and I've always embraced that."

Sheppard played seven seasons with the Eagles out of his ten-year career, achieving notable success including 18 interceptions and two Pro Bowl selections. In 2006, he became the first NFL player with two 100-plus-yard touchdown returns.

Reflecting on his own draft experience, Sheppard noted that unlike Mitchell, he did not have a pre-draft visit with the Eagles but learned patience while waiting for his selection call.

"It was one of those experiences that you always cherish and look back on," Sheppard recalled. "It's one of the most memorable nights of my life."

Mitchell's game reminded Sheppard of himself, particularly noting Mitchell's flat-foot read technique which was key to success under former Eagles Defensive Coordinator Jim Johnson.

"That was a big part of why we were able to have success in Philly," Sheppard explained. "The flat-foot read was a pretty good technique he was able to execute."

Mitchell joins an Eagles team with established cornerbacks James Bradberry and Darius Slay, similar to when Sheppard joined a team featuring Bobby Taylor and Troy Vincent.

"From a mentality and growth standpoint, I think that will greatly help him," said Sheppard. "His game is going to be different than theirs...there will be no backing down from him."

Sheppard believes Mitchell possesses the poise and skill necessary for playing in Philadelphia and navigating the NFC East landscape.

"The new kid is on the block; this is another great defensive back in Philly," concluded Sheppard.