NEW ORLEANS — During the past Super Bowl run, Reed Blankenship found himself primarily as a backup player, participating in just a single defensive play against the Kansas City Chiefs. However, this season has showcased the tremendous impact of newcomers Quinyon Mitchell and Cooper DeJean, who have transformed a once-weak secondary into a robust unit as they gear up for another face-off with the Chiefs this Sunday.
“It’s incredibly challenging,” Blankenship remarked, reflecting on the pressures of being a rookie with significant responsibilities. “It’s exciting to see how much our rookies have evolved. They approach practices like seasoned pros, studying diligently and asking questions. Knowing they grasp their roles certainly alleviates a lot of pressure on me.”
Mitchell and DeJean are not the only first-year players poised to make an impact on game day. Kansas City’s first-round draft pick Xavier Worthy has also recently emerged as a crucial element of their aerial attack.
Mitchell has made a remarkable impression this postseason, ranking second in voting for AP NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year. He has surrendered merely five receptions on 15 targets, totaling just 24 yards, according to data from NFL NextGen. Despite coming from Toledo in the MAC, Mitchell has quickly climbed the ranks to become one of the league’s standout cornerbacks. “I’m evidence that where you come from doesn’t define you,” he stated. “All it takes is hard work and belief.”
DeJean’s entrance into the starting lineup in Week 6 significantly boosted the defense’s performance, as he has allowed just 97 yards on 15 targets throughout the playoffs. Philadelphia’s Jalyx Hunt has emerged as a vital situational pass rusher, notching a sack against the Rams in the divisional round. Furthermore, Will Shipley contributed with a significant 57-yard run and a forced fumble on special teams, while Jeremiah Trotter has made essential contributions on special teams, emphasizing the success of GM Howie Roseman’s draft selections.
“We’ve received phenomenal support from our rookie class,” coach Nick Sirianni noted. “This is a testament to Howie and his team’s commitment to identifying the right players. Talent is just the foundation; something more is required to achieve our current status.”
Contrary to the Eagles, the Chiefs feature fewer rookie contributors, but safety Jaden Hicks stands out alongside Worthy. Worthy, known for his lightning-fast speed, holds the record for the quickest 40-yard dash from last year’s combine and is anticipated to play a pivotal role during the game.
Kansas City elevated Worthy to the 28th overall pick in last April’s draft, though some speculated whether his 165-pound build would withstand the physical rigors of the NFL. “Entering the season, I felt skepticism about my abilities,” he admitted. “Many remarked that I wasn’t suited to be a prominent receiver, labeling me as too small and fragile. I’ve set out to prove them wrong and will continue to do so.”
Worthy is leading the Chiefs with 10 touchdowns among both regular season and playoff games, showcasing his peak performance toward the end of the season. He has amassed 50 receptions for 522 yards within his last nine games, excluding a brief appearance in Week 18, demonstrating a solid rapport with quarterback Patrick Mahomes.
“He’s improved week after week,” coach Andy Reid remarked. “He and Pat share a strong bond, and Pat has complete faith in him. It requires time and effort for a young receiver to cultivate that trust, and he’s undoubtedly managed to achieve it.”
