Mitchell played all six games as a true freshman during the COVID-19-shortened 2020 season, totaling seven tackles.[6] He then started all 13 games in 2021 at cornerback, totaling 34 tackles, eight pass breakups, one forced fumble and one fumble recovery, along with a sack.[7]
Mitchell remained a full-time starter in 2022, starting all 14 games while posting 41 tackles, 25 passes defended (which led the country), five interceptions, and 3.5 TFLs.[8][9] Mitchell was named the national defensive player of the week after recording four interceptions and two pick sixes in a win over Northern Illinois; his four interceptions tied the school record.[4][10] Mitchell was selected first-team All-Mid-American Conference (MAC) and was a second-team All-America honoree by the Walter Camp Foundation.[4][11]
In 13 games during the 2023 season, Mitchell compiled 41 total tackles, 18 passes defended, and one interception.[12] Mitchell was named a semifinalist for the Chuck Bednarik Award, being Toledo's first player to earn the honor, and was chosen a first-team All-American, being the second back-to-back All-American in school history.[13] Following the conclusion of the season, Mitchell was invited to the 2024 Senior Bowl.[14]
Mitchell was selected by the Philadelphia Eagles in the first round (22nd overall) of the 2024 NFL draft.[17] His jersey number was initially assigned to No. 30, but switched to No. 27 ahead of the regular season following the departure of Zech McPhearson.[18]
2024 season
During his rookie year, Mitchell was known for his consistent coverage skills against receivers such as Drake London, Ja'Marr Chase, and Mike Evans.[19] Most notably, during the week 11 Thursday Night Football matchup between the Washington Commanders, Mitchell held wide receiver Terry McLaurin to 0 targets, 0 receptions, and 0 yards.[20] Due to his efficiency against guarding wide receivers, Mitchell was nicknamed "Quinyonamo Bay";[21] a reference to the United Statesmilitary prisonGuantanamo Bay, and his colloquial status as a "lockdown corner". He was named to the PFWA All-Rookie Team for his 2024 season.[22] Mitchell would record his first career interception in the 22–10 win over the Green Bay Packers in the wild-card round of the 2024 NFL playoffs. In the 2024 NFC Championship game, Mitchell intercepted quarterback Jayden Daniels enroute to a blowout win 55–23.[23] Mitchell became a Super Bowl champion following the Eagles 40–22 win over the Chiefs in Super Bowl LIX.[24]
