In part one of our Eagles safety preview we took a look a Quintin Mikell and what he brings to the defense for 2009. In part two we will continue looking at the safety position, this time we will take a better look at returning 2008 rookie, Quintin Demps.
Demps was drafted by the Eagles in the fourth round of the 2008 Draft from the Texas El-Paso Minors. During his college career he pulled together 17 interceptions, 275 tackles and three forced fumbles. During his junior year Demps was voted to the All Conference USA First Team.
As the teams Kick Returner in 2008, Demps excited fans with his speed and athletisim. In his 52 attempts last year, Quintin returned for over 1,300 yards. This upgrade excited fan’s who long suffered through the Reno Mahe years. Demps finished the season 4th in the NFL with a 25.2 yard average with a long of 100 yards resulting in a TD(vs Ravens).
On defense it was a different story. At time Demps showed real promise, as in the final game of the regular season against Dallas with 4 solo tackles. At other times, he showed his inexperence leaving opposing receivers covered poorly.
In 2009 expect Quintin to take a large step forward as well as many little steps back. With this being his second year in the system we should see a lot less thinking on the field and much more reacting. That being said, 2 years doesn’t make a seasoned veteran and you can count on a few more learning curve mistakes.
Touted for his instinctive play in college, I expect to see a more confident, play making Demps on the defensive side of the ball. Expect a few key interception’s at crucial moments. With his speed you can also expect excitement and a potential TD whenever the ball is in his hands.
One thing you shouldn’t expect? Demps continuing Kick Return duties. As a likely starter, this job will be handed over to the Training Camp standout. The coaching staff is going to want to keep Quintin’s legs fresh as he will be likely to spend more time in coverage then run protection.
In our next 2009 Eagles Preview, we will take a closer look at the Defensive Line, stay tuned.
Dan Bandekow is a writer on Bleacher Report covering the Philadelphia Eagles. His work has been featured on NFL Sport Channel, BallHype.com, League.com, as well as many other news outlets.