2013 NFL Draft: Philadelphia Eagles Team Needs
By John Carey
Jan 17, 2013; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Philadelphia Eagles new head coach Chip Kelly addresses the media during a press conference at the Philadelphia Eagles NovaCare Complex. Mandatory Credit: Howard Smith-USA TODAY Sports
#1: Offensive Line
The Eagles Offensive Line issues have been heavily reported for the last few years but they really haven’t done much to fix the problem, and former first round pick Danny Watkins never really panned out. Jason Peter is an elite Left Tackle when healthy, but he was out all last year with a serious injury. Even if he comes back completely healthy, a Right Tackle is still needed, and depth along the line as a whole as well.
Potential Draft Fixes: Luke Joeckel, Eric Fischer, and Dallas Thomas
#2: Cornerback
Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie signed with the Broncos, and Nmadi Asomugha was cut. The only cornerbacks on the roster who could be viable starters are Brandon Boykin and Cary Williams, and the former is best served in the Nickel Back Role.
Potential Draft Fixes: Dee Millner, Desmond Trufant, and Xavier Rhodes
#3: Nose Tackle
The Eagle are reportedly moving to a 3-4, so they are going to need a pure Nose Tackle. They currently only have Isaac Sopoaga on their roster for Nose Tackle, so they need a backup and eventual replacement for him.
Potential Draft Fixes: Star Lotuleli, Jesse Williams, and John Jenkins
#4: Safety
Along with the poor play at Cornerback, the safeties were just as bad, if not worse. Nate Allen was benched, and Kurt Coleman and Colt Anderson should both not be starting. Kenny Phillips was signed in free agency, but another safety is needed to challenge Nate Allen.
Potential Draft Fixes: Matt Elam, Eric Reid, and Robert Lester
#5: Quarterback
Mike Vick is most likely the starter this year, and even though the Eagles reportedly want to keep Nick Foles, they’d be smart to trade him and get value, as he is not a fit in Chip Kelley’s system. Dennis Dixon really isn’t starter material either.
Potential Draft Fixes: E.J. Manuel, Matt Scott, and Collin Klein