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Ralph Vacchiano
NFC East Reporter
The Philadelphia Eagles made a huge splash in free agency, signing running back Saquon Barkley, edge rusher Bryce Huff, and bringing back safety C.J. Gardner-Johnson. And all three should help them climb back to the top of the NFC.
But as their 1-6 collapse at the end of last season showed them, they still have plenty of other holes to fill.
The Eagles still need to restock an aging secondary, and build back the trenches after the retirements of center Jason Kelce and defensive tackle Fletcher Cox. They need help and depth at linebacker too, and probably receiver. And at this point, that all has to come from the NFL Draft.
They have eight picks to use, thanks to the three compensatory picks they were awarded by the NFL. Here’s an early look at how general manager Howie Roseman might use them:
First round, 22nd overall: Alabama CB Kool-Aid McKinstry
Cornerback is the biggest hole left on the Eagles roster after free agency. James Bradberry will be 31 in August and is coming off a terrible season. Darius Slay is 33 and coming off an injury. Avonte Maddox was cut. And while Kelee Ringo and Eli Ricks showed promise last season, neither seemed ready for a prominent role.
So the 5-foot-11, 199-pound McKinstry should be a refreshing addition. He’s not flashy and he only had two interceptions despite being a three-year starter for the Tide, but scouts say he’s a smart and efficient cover corner who is rarely out of position. He held his own against some of the nation’s best receivers in the best conference, too.
He’s probably more suited to the outside than in the slot, but he won’t have to be thrown into a starring role. He can also help out by returning punts, which he did the last two seasons.
Second round, 50th overall: Oklahoma OT Tyler Guyton
Roseman likes his offensive line to be like a conveyor belt, with talent ready to step right in when someone leaves. But the loss of guard Isaac…
Source link : https://www.foxsports.com/stories/nfl/eagles-7-round-mock-draft-philly-rebuild-secondary-restock-lines
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Publish date : 2024-03-20 18:50:49
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