DT, Anthony Rush, UAB
Rush ended 2018 with 43 tackles, 11 TFL and a pair of sacks. Another small-school sleeper, Rush has a ridiculously intimidating frame at 6’5, 350 lbs, but needs to develop some pass-rushing moves if he is to make the jump. His size alone will command plenty of attention, but if the Eagles can condition some agility and endurance, they may have a real space-eating sleeper who can suck up double teams in lighter formations designed for defensive end speed.
WR, DeAndre Thompkins, Penn State
Noticing a trend here? The Eagles fell in love with Thompkins at his pro day and he could provide some special teams value to the Eagles, with two punt return TD’s to his name. A 443 yard season in 2017 was his best, but Thompkins was predominantly used as a slot-receiver which lends itself very kindly to the Eagles. A slightly smaller slot wideout who has the ability to create separation at the line, and a man who has 66 returns for 674 yards? This could be a real sleeper to watch.
DT Kevin Wilkins (Rutgers)
Another local kid, Wilkins ended 2018 with 50 tackles after starting every game on the outside. That kind of versatility jumps off the page when you consider his size (6’2, 304 lbs). He’s a more burstful lineman with good hands and an explosive first step. It’s down to Phillip Daniels to harness the rest.
Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports
