Veteran Avonte Maddox Mentors Rookie Quinyon Mitchell on and off the Field
The Philadelphia Eagles have always valued versatility and depth in their roster, attributes well reflected by veteran Avonte Maddox. This season, Maddox's role has expanded beyond just his on-field responsibilities; he has taken rookie Quinyon Mitchell under his wing, sharing his experience both as a player and a mentor.
A Different Kind of Assist
The bond between Maddox and Mitchell was highlighted by an unexpected incident earlier in the season. Mitchell found himself in a predicament when his car ran out of gas while crossing the Walt Whitman Bridge. In need of help, he called the first person he could think of—Maddox. “His car ran out of gas going across the bridge. He called me. I stopped to pick him up. So it doesn't matter. Whenever he needs me,” Maddox recounted.
Maddox’s readiness to assist didn’t surprise those who know him well. Whether it's a gallon of gas or intricate football strategies, Maddox is ready to provide support.
Learning the Ropes
On the field, Maddox’s mentorship is invaluable for the Eagles' secondary. Maddox, who had to fight for a roster spot coming into camp, is now sharing his vast knowledge of playing the slot cornerback position with Mitchell. “He's definitely doing a great job. He's smart. He knows football. I just give him the concepts of what I'm looking at, seeing here and there, how they're lining up, what would I do in this situation or that situation,” Mitchell explained.
Mitchell’s daily questions about football are indicative of his commitment to learning and improving. “He asks (questions) every day. That's encouraging to see because when you got questions, that means you care, you want to learn, you want to be out there,” Maddox said.
Adapting and Leading
Maddox’s own journey this season has seen him temporarily take on the role of safety, stepping in due to C.J. Gardner-Johnson's shoulder injury. He has been getting first-team reps and adapting to the position admirably. “It's been getting better every day. I've been working a lot at the safety spot. It's been valuable for me because I need the reps, seeing it a little bit different. But it's making sure I get the fundamentals and the footwork down,” Maddox noted.
The transition has showcased Maddox’s comprehensive understanding of the game. “I know all the calls. I know where I'm supposed to be at the moment, and I know where all my teammates are supposed to be,” he stated. This level of awareness is crucial, not just for his own position but for guiding younger players like Mitchell.
A Team First Mentality
For Maddox, mentoring isn't about diminishing competition on the field but about fostering a collaborative environment for the team’s overall benefit. “Me and him can compete at it, but at the end of the day, if he has a question, I would never turn my back. I would never not tell him the right answer. Any time he needs extra work, any time he would need to know an answer to anything, I would help him,” Maddox emphasized.
This attitude is not only helping Mitchell grow as a player but also reinforcing the culture within the Eagles' locker room. “It's never a battle between us in that way. On the field, it's all about competition and me helping him get better because at some point, I'll be done with football, and he'll still be going, and I want him to be the best he can be,” Maddox reflected.
Strength in Unity
The relationship between Maddox and Mitchell transcends typical mentorship. It's a partnership grounded in mutual respect and a common goal: to see the team thrive. The Eagles value Maddox’s ability to provide depth and versatility in the secondary, and his efforts to develop Mitchell underscore the team’s investment in their future. As Maddox continues to adapt and impart his wisdom, Mitchell is poised to become a more integral part of the Eagles’ defensive lineup.
In a season marked by challenges and change, the Maddox-Mitchell dynamic offers a promising glimpse into the strength and unity of the Eagles’ secondary unit. Through shared knowledge, experience, and unwavering support, they're not just preparing for the next game—they're building a legacy for seasons to come.