2023 NFL Draft: Reviewing team needs in the NFC East

2 of 5

Dec 18, 2022; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts (1) scrambles left looking to throw in the first quarter against the Chicago Bears at Soldier Field. Mandatory Credit: Daniel Bartel-USA TODAY Sports /

2023 NFL Draft: Philadelphia Eagles

Nick Sirianni has been tremendous as the head coach of the Philadelphia Eagles. After a 4-11-1 season in 2020, Sirianni has led the Eagles to a 23-11 record over the last two years. This team has done a nice job of drafting and developing their own (Hurts, Dallas Goedert, etc.), making splash trades (A.J. Brown, Darius Slay, etc.), and maneuvering the free agency market well (Hassan Reddick). They have a great balance of veteran leadership and young talent. As their trusty vets continue to age, it’s key that Howie Roseman restocks the cupboards every April.

Top Draft Needs: DL, CB, RB

Over the past several years, the defensive line of the Philadelphia Eagles has been a strength, a position group ranked among the league’s best. However, the Eagles have a twofold problem this offseason. Several key contributors are aging and/or not under contract for next season. Fletcher Cox (32), Javon Hargrave (30 next month), Brandon Graham (35 in April), and Robert Quinn (33 in May) are all on the wrong side of 30 and not under contract for the 2023 season. The Eagles will re-sign where it makes sense, and they’ve already started the process of drafting with the future in mind (i.e.: Jordan Davis). They’ll need to continue to do so. Pairing Jordan Davis with another high-ceiling defensive lineman will ensure this group remains a strength.

In the secondary, James Bradberry is slated to be a free agent. The Eagles would like to have him back opposite Darius Slay but it’s unclear if they can make the money work. Slay is also 32 and set to be a free agent himself after the 2023 season, so drafting a cornerback feels like a near-certainty. The safety position could use an upgrade as well.

On the other side of the ball, this is an offense that revolves around the run game (5th in YPG this season) and their starting running back, Miles Sanders, is set to become a free agent. If the Eagles fail to come to an agreement with Sanders, Kenneth Gainwell would be next in line. While Gainwell has been a nice contributor in spots, it’s unclear if Philadelphia views him as a feature back. If Sanders is not back, look for Philadelphia to add a back in the NFL Draft.

Home/NFL Draft News