Eagles and Chiefs Rookies Poised to Shine in Super Bowl LIX

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Eagles and Chiefs Rookies Poised to Shine in Super Bowl LIX/ Newslooks/ WASHINGTON/ J. Mansour/ Morning Edition/ Rookies for the Philadelphia Eagles and Kansas City Chiefs are set to play crucial roles in Super Bowl LIX. Eagles cornerbacks Quinyon Mitchell and Cooper DeJean have transformed the secondary, while Xavier Worthy has become a key weapon for the Chiefs’ offense. With both teams relying on young talent, these first-year players could make a major difference on football’s biggest stage.

Philadelphia Eagles cornerback Quinyon Mitchell (27) intercepts a pass intended for Washington Commanders wide receiver Terry McLaurin (17) during the second half of the NFC Championship NFL football game, Sunday, Jan. 26, 2025, in Philadelphia. (AP Photo/Derik Hamilton)

Eagles and Chiefs Rookies Set to Make Super Bowl Impact – Quick Look

Quinyon Mitchell & Cooper DeJean: The Eagles’ rookie duo has strengthened their pass defense.
Xavier Worthy’s Rise: Kansas City’s first-round pick has emerged as a top target for Mahomes.
Jalyx Hunt & Will Shipley: Eagles rookies making contributions on defense and special teams.
Chiefs’ Defensive Addition: Rookie safety Jaden Hicks adds depth to Kansas City’s secondary.
Super Bowl X-Factors: These young stars could play pivotal roles in deciding Sunday’s game.

Eagles and Chiefs Rookies Poised to Shine in Super Bowl LIX

Eagles and Chiefs Rookies Set to Make Super Bowl Impact – Deep Look

Rookies Thriving on the Super Bowl Stage

When the Philadelphia Eagles and Kansas City Chiefs take the field for Super Bowl LIX, a new generation of stars could shape the outcome. Despite their lack of NFL experience, several rookies have emerged as key contributors, proving they can handle the biggest stage in sports.

Philadelphia’s Rookie Standouts: Mitchell & DeJean Bolster the Defense

Two years ago, Reed Blankenship was a rookie safety who barely saw action in the Eagles’ Super Bowl loss to the Chiefs. Now, as he watches Quinyon Mitchell and Cooper DeJean step into starting roles, he is impressed by their quick development.

“It’s crazy hard,” Blankenship said. “They play, they study, and they ask questions like vets. Knowing they know their job makes my life so much easier.”

Mitchell, the No. 22 overall pick out of Toledo, finished second in AP Defensive Rookie of the Year voting. His impact has been immediate:

Only 5 catches allowed on 15 targets in the playoffs.
Just 24 total yards allowed in coverage.

DeJean, a second-round pick from Iowa, has been just as effective:

First start in Week 6 helped turn the Eagles’ defense around.
Allowed only 97 receiving yards this postseason.

Philadelphia’s Rookie Depth: More Than Just the Secondary

The Eagles’ rookie contributions don’t stop at cornerback:

Jalyx Hunt has developed into a key pass rusher, registering a sack in the Divisional Round.
Will Shipley had a 57-yard run and forced a fumble on kick coverage.
Jeremiah Trotter Jr. has played a critical role on special teams.

Coach Nick Sirianni credited General Manager Howie Roseman for finding talented, hard-working rookies who have stepped up under pressure.

“Talent only gets you so far,” Sirianni said. “You need that extra something to be here right now.”

Xavier Worthy: The Chiefs’ Speed Threat

While the Eagles have focused on defense, Kansas City’s most impactful rookie is a dynamic playmaker on offense.

Xavier Worthy, the No. 28 overall pick, entered the NFL with concerns about his 165-pound frame. But after breaking the NFL Scouting Combine’s 40-yard dash record, the explosive wide receiver has proven he belongs.

“Everybody doubted me,” Worthy said. “Too small, not built for the league. I’ve proved them all wrong, and I’m going to keep proving them wrong.”

Worthy’s Late-Season Breakout:

Leads the Chiefs with 10 total touchdowns (regular season + playoffs).
50 receptions, 522 yards over his last nine games.
Built strong chemistry with Patrick Mahomes, earning the QB’s trust.

“He’s gotten better every week,” said Chiefs coach Andy Reid. “He and Pat have a great relationship, and that takes time for a young receiver.”

Can These Rookies Swing the Super Bowl?

While veterans like Mahomes, Hurts, Kelce, and Brown will dominate the spotlight, rookies could be the deciding factor.

If Mitchell and DeJean shut down Mahomes’ passing attack, the Eagles could have a decisive edge.
If Worthy breaks loose for a big touchdown, he could be the game’s X-factor.

In a rematch of Super Bowl LVII, this year’s showdown could come down to which young stars shine under the brightest lights.