2024 NFL Draft: Quinyon Mitchell is the cornerback in draft that you need to know

The dynamic Toledo cornerback is the next big thing in the NFL.

Over the next couple of weeks, leading up to the 2024 NFL Draft we will take a look at close to 30 prospects to know.

Within that, we will use the excellent work of Dane Brugler, who has just released his “The Beast” 2024 NFL Draft Guide. I highly recommend taking a peek and signing up for The Athletic if only to get Dane’s guide.

It is always an exhaustive work, and he should be commended.

With that said, we will go in order of Dane’s Big Board and use his final analysis as the wrap up of each prospect.

Next up is Dane’s 11th ranked prospect in the 2024 NFL Draft, Quinyon Mitchell and the best cornerback in the draft for my money, as well as the perfect fit for the Arizona Cardinals.

Dane’s Take:

A three-year starter at Toledo, Mitchell was a perimeter cornerback in defensive coordinator Vince Kehres’ zone-heavy scheme. Only the second player in Rockets history to earn All-America honors in back-to-back seasons, he departed as the most productive defensive back in Toledo history, having set school records for passes defended in a season (25) and career (52).

Mitchell was a dynamic player for Toledo, and now has the chance to show he is the real deal at the next level. His mix of athleticism and incredible production that should be turning heads and opening eyes.

Often asked to play on an island in off-man or zone, Mitchell has the athletic talent to mirror all over the field and always appears under control, because of his play recognition and composure in coverage. With his awareness and feel for timing, his ball skills are deserving of the “elite” adjective (responsible for 43 passes defended and six interceptions over the last 27 games).

Again, this is insane production. He was making plays in every game no matter what he was asked to do, and he did it against whoever the best player on the other team was.

Overall, Mitchell is a balanced size/speed athlete who stays in phase up and down the field, doesn’t panic and makes plays on the football at a high rate. His tape and traits show an NFL -ready starter with a bright future.

Mitchell is a top five pick to me. I don’t see why he isn’t getting more run from the media, but being on a bad Toledo team for four years is tough.

Next up… Dallas Turner.