Philadelphia Eagles veteran Avonte Maddox is taking on a significant mentorship role this season, guiding rookie Quinyon Mitchell both on and off the field. Their growing relationship is proving to be mutually beneficial, enhancing the depth and versatility of the Eagles’ secondary.
A Lifeline on and off the Field
When Mitchell found himself stranded on the Walt Whitman Bridge with an empty gas tank, it was Maddox who came to his rescue. "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 shared.
This bond goes beyond just acts of camaraderie. Maddox’s willingness to assist in both personal and professional realms underscores his dedication to helping Mitchell navigate the early stages of his NFL career. In turn, Mitchell has expressed deep appreciation and admiration for his mentor. "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 stated.
Mastering the Slot and Beyond
Maddox, who is renowned for his expertise as a slot cornerback, is currently adapting to the safety position. This shift comes as C.J. Gardner-Johnson recovers from a shoulder injury, necessitating Maddox to fill in and receive first-team reps at safety. "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," said Maddox.
His versatility is appreciated by the Eagles, who recognize the importance of having players who can perform well in multiple roles. Maddox’s deep understanding of team calls and his awareness of where all his teammates need to be further highlight his value. "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 affirmed.
Guiding the Next Generation
Maddox’s mentorship extends to daily practices where he offers insights, answers questions, and provides a model of what it means to be a professional in the NFL. "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 observed.
Despite the competitive nature of professional sports, Maddox emphasizes the supportive aspect of his relationship with Mitchell. "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," he explained.
A Team Benefit
As the Eagles prepare for the challenges of the season, the bond between Maddox and Mitchell is emerging as a cornerstone of the team's depth. Maddox had to fight for his roster spot coming into camp, demonstrating his resilience and determination. The Eagles value this kind of tenacity and the ability to mentor younger players like Mitchell, recognising that it strengthens the entire team.
Mitchell’s frequent questions and his eagerness to learn reflect the rookie’s dedication, while Maddox’s willingness to share his knowledge and experience illustrates his commitment to the team’s success. Together, they exemplify a productive mentor-mentee relationship that contributes to the team's overall performance.
In an environment where every player must be ready to step up at a moment’s notice, the growth and development of players like Mitchell are essential. Maddox’s mentorship ensures that the Eagles not only maintain their current competitive edge but also build a strong foundation for future seasons.