NFL Training Camps: Philadelphia Eagles Rookie Watch
By Jon Dove
The Philadelphia Eagles are hoping a few key free agent signings, a trade and solid draft picks will help them make a playoff appearance this season.
As far as the 2017 NFL Draft picks are concerned, the Philadelphia Eagles expect to get immediate contributions from a few players. Derek Barnett will be the one with the most pressure to perform as a rookie.
Barnett is a savvy edge rusher who uses a combination of quickness and power to get after the quarterback. He will rotate in at defensive end along with Brandon Graham and Vinny Curry. However, Jim Schwartz will find a way to get all three on the field in passing situations.
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The defense could also get some help from cornerback Rasul Douglas. His role might be limited at first, but should expand as the season progresses. Douglas is a bigger cornerback who has a knack for creating turnovers.
His ball skills make him a major threat to grab interceptions. This is something that will ultimately force the Eagles to give him playing time.
Douglas was the second cornerback selected by the Eagles in this draft. Sidney Jones was picked in the 2nd round, but is unlikely to see the field this year after suffering an injury during his pro day.
Jones is an elite talent who would’ve been a 1st round pick had he been healthy. The Eagles made this pick knowing it will take a year to reap the benefits.
Offensively, Mack Hollins and Donnel Pumphrey could see limited action. Both players are behind a few players on the depth chart. However, look for them to be major contributors on special teams.
Hollins was an active special teamer while at North Carolina. He has the size, speed and willingness to excel in this role.