NFL Draft Wishlist: Philadelphia Eagles
By Josh Carter
The Eagles, along with the Lions are in one of the best positions in the draft. They’re already a very talented team in many places but have a few glaring needs to be addressed before they start competing for the NFC East again. Those needs are mainly on the offensive line and defensive secondary. A few boosts in those areas mixed with some good QB play will bring the Eagles back into being a contender. Unfortunately, the QB situation right now in Philly is not a very dependable one with Vick battling injury and Foles struggling. Like my Jets the Eagles must depend on QB competition to fire up that position.
Jan 3, 2013; Miami, FL, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide defensive back Dee Milliner (28) during practice for the 2013 BCS National Championship game against the Notre Dame Fighting Irish at Barry University. Mandatory Credit: Robert Mayer-USA TODAY Sports
Round 1 – Dee Milliner, CB, Alabama – The Eagles have a lot of great options here. They can fill a big need on the offensive line or CB with two franchise players likely to be available in Milliner and Warmack. In an NFC East conference against Eli Manning, RG3 and Tony Romo a better move may be to sign a long term franchise cornerback. Dee Milliner is the crown jewel of the 2013 secondary draft class and will help solidify the Eagles defensive backs unit for years to come.
Jan 1, 2013; Miami Gardens, FL, USA; Florida State Seminoles quarterback EJ Manuel (3) runs for a touchdown against the Northern Illinois Huskies in the second half of the 2013 Orange Bowl at Sun Life Stadium. FSU won 31-10. Mandatory Credit: Robert Mayer-USA TODAY Sports
Round 2 – EJ Manuel, QB, Florida State – EJ Manuel is the perfect pick for the Eagles, he would be a big gamble for a team who needs a franchise QB to step in year one but a great investment for the less urgent QB situation in Philadelphia. Philly needs to bring in QBs to compete with Foles and Dixon and EJ Manuel can be the perfect fit to potentially signal call for a Chip Kelly coached offense.
March 14, 2013; Eugene, OR, USA; Oregon Ducks offensive lineman Ryan Clanton and offensive lineman Kyle Long go up against each other at Oregon pro day at Moshofsky Center. Mandatory Credit: Jaime Valdez-USA TODAY Sports
Sleeper Pick – Kyle Long, G/T, Oregon – Philly needs help on their offensive line this season. Kyle Long is relatively new to football but showed great promise during his one and done season on the Oregon offensive line. Chip Kelly has already made the move to reunite with Dennis Dixon, why not make a move on another familiar face who fills a big need in Philly?