NFL Draft: Redrafting the first round of the 2016 NFL Draft
WR. Philadelphia Eagles. Michael Thomas. 2. player. 54.
NFL Draft: Redrafting the first round of the 2016 NFL Draft 2. Michael Thomas
Originally selected 47th overall (+45)
The Philadelphia Eagles originally took Carson Wentz with this pick. The former North Dakota State quarterback was a winner in every way. That said, he wouldn’t have such luck with the Eagles. Technically, he would take them to a Super Bowl, but Nick Foles would step in and win it for them.
After a handful of injuries, Wentz had turned into a turnover machine, leading the league in interceptions thrown and total turnovers, even while playing in only 12 games this past season. He’d be replaced with Jalen Hurts.
Here’s the thing — there aren’t any better quarterback options in this draft. Instead, the Eagles would have felt great about settling for the best receiver in the NFL and waiting a year to find their passer.
In this redraft, Philadelphia takes Michael Thomas from Ohio State, who has quickly established himself as arguably the best receiver in the league. Who knows, maybe they still end up with Jalen Hurts, who would have a much easier time finding success with a big target like Thomas to throw to.
The fact of the matter is that the Eagles were in need of receivers and in hindsight, Michael Thomas was the best in this draft. That’s why they take him with the second overall pick.