2015 NFL Draft: What if Marcus Mariota Falls?

has missed 25 of a possible 32 games since playing a full 2012. Mandatory Credit: Jake Roth-USA TODAY Sports

Philadelphia Eagles

Draft Position: No. 20

Current Quarterback: Sam Bradford, 27 years old

Other Draft Needs: S, CB, WR

The general consensus is that, if Marcus Mariota begins to slip, Chip Kelly will find a way to trade up for him. The more likely scenario is that Kelly will only consider such a move if the asking price is realistic.

Should Mariota fall into range—or even reach No. 20—it’ll be hard to imagine the Philadelphia Eagles passing over him.

Then again, not many expected the Dallas Cowboys to let Johnny Manziel pass them by, either.

The difference here is that Mariota played for Kelly at Oregon. He understands the scheme, is familiar with the Eagles’ personnel and would be at home with a coach he trusts.

That last part is the key.

Mariota is widely viewed as a spread-offense quarterback—and I meant that in the most limiting way possible. Whether or not that proves to be true, the Eagles’ offensive scheme fits Mariota and would make his transition to the NFL significantly easier.

Given Sam Bradford’s extensive injury history, drafting Mariota would make perfect sense for the Eagles.

Next: Beware of the First-Round Running Back in the NFL Draft

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