2016 NFL Mock Draft: Holiday Update
By Jon Dove
Jan 1, 2015; Arlington, TX, USA; Michigan State Spartans offensive tackle Jack Conklin (74) blocks Baylor Bears defensive end Shawn Oakman (2) during the 2015 Cotton Bowl Classic at AT&T Stadium. The Spartans defeated the Bears 42-41. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports
16. Philadelphia Eagles (6-7)- Jack Conklin, OL, Michigan State
The Philadelphia Eagles have put together big wins in the past few weeks and are now back in the playoff hunt. A lot of their recent success is thanks to the strong play on the defensive side of the ball. Chip Kelly and the offense are still struggling to find consistency.
It’s the lack of a strong running attack that has hurt the offense. There just isn’t enough running room for talented running backs like DeMarco Murray, Ryan Mathews and Darren Sproles. Philadelphia needs to focus their resources this offseason on upgrading the offensive line.
They probably have another year or two with Jason Peters at left tackle and Lane Johnson is entrenched on the right side. The issues are on the interior at the guard positions. Michigan State’s Jack Conklin is a great candidate to step in and provide immediate help.
Conklin currently lines up at left tackle, but doesn’t have great foot speed. He just isn’t quick enough to consistently protect the edge against the elite speed rushers in the NFL. However, Conklin would be an above-average athlete at guard.
He’d immediately improve the Eagles running game because he’s a nasty blocker. Conklin fires off the ball, rolls hips and drives defenders off the line of scrimmage.
Next: No. 17 Oakland