Philadelphia Eagles: 5 First-round targets in 2020 NFL Draft
4. Grant Delpit, S, LSU
Grant Delpit performed an absolute clinic during the National Championship Game against Clemson. The junior safety compiled six tackles and a sack as he led the Tigers’ defense late in the game to stifle Trevor Lawrence and the rest of the Clemson offense. Just like Murray, Delpit’s around the ball at all times and he ended the 2019 season with 65 tackles, two sacks and two interceptions.
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The LSU product has lined up at both safety spots but could perhaps take over for Malcolm Jenkins as he enters the last year of his contract in 2020. Jenkins will likely play with a new deal or with another team. Either way, having Delpit as insurance would be critical for Philly’s success.
3. A.J. Epenesa, EDGE, Iowa
A.J. Epenesa was a monster throughout the 2019 college football season as he accumulated 49 tackles and 11.5 sacks and was a complete nightmare for Big Ten offensive linemen. Simply put, he’s going to be a problem for opposing offenses in the NFL as well. And if he is selected by the Eagles, he will be a major upgrade for their pass rush.
The team currently has depth issues at the defensive end position. Brandon Graham will be approaching 32 years old next season and, so far, Derek Barnett hasn’t elevated as the star pass rusher most fans expected him to develop into. Epenesa has the skill set to be among the best defensive ends in the league for years to come.