Howie Roseman seems to have a new mindset going into the 2020 NFL Draft. After striking out in previous drafts to get playmakers on offense and defense, this may be the draft that redeems Howie Roseman of previous mishaps. So how about we kick off the draft with a bang? In 2016, Howie Roseman did everything possible to ensure the number two overall pick in the NFL Draft to secure their franchise QB, so how about doing the same for a franchise-altering wideout?
The Eagles are expected to receive two-to-three comp picks, one being the third-rounder and the others being fourth rounders. In this draft, Howie Roseman shoots for the stars by trading the 21st overall pick, 3rd round comp pick, a 2021 2nd rounder, and Sidney Jones to the New York Jets for the 11th overall pick in the 2020 draft. The Jets ideally need to invest at OL for the first time in forever, but cornerback is a glaring need and the talent drops off quick. This gives Joe Douglas a familiar face to work with along with ensuring they can bolster the trenches later on.
1st round, pick 11 (via trade w/ Jets) – WR CeeDee Lamb
Lamb is the thunder that this offense needs. A terrifying playmaker with the ball in his hands, Lamb averaged 21.4 yards per catch in 2019. He also racked up 1,327 receiving yards on 62 receptions with 14 touchdowns. Lamb’s speed and separation will make him a tough cover for NFL defenses, as his explosiveness will allow him to play in all three receiving positions. One thing that the Eagles have lacked for quite some time has been a young number one receiver to go along with a fairly young franchise QB. This move will break a curse that’s haunted them since even before the McNabb era.
2nd round, pick 53 – S Kyle Dugger
Possibly one of the most athletic players in this year’s draft, Dugger possesses everything the Eagles need in a possible replacement for Malcolm Jenkins. Kyle Dugger may just be the best-kept secret come draft day. The Eagles will walk away with a steal if they can their hands on him. Listed at 6-2, 220 lbs; Dugger is a rare combination of size, speed, and explosiveness. In 7 games with Lenoir-Rhyne, he racked up 31 total tackles, 2 interceptions, and 6 passes defended. He also brings with him a special teams resume that may make the Eagles front office drool a bit.
3rd round, pick 85 – CB Troy Pride JR
Troy Pride Jr may be the prototypical cornerback for the style of defense that Schwartz plays. He’s effective in off coverage and also as good recognition and repose to play action. Being apart of the Notre Dame track, Pride has used that to his advantage in his usage of his in-game speed. although he possesses good speed, Pride may be best suited for a scheme that relies on zone coverage.
4th round, pick 117 – CB AJ Green
I know what you’re thinking, One: it’s not the AJ Green you want, Two: I’m double-dipping at corner in back-to-back rounds and that didn’t help the last time the Eagles did so. But it’s a new day! Green isn’t the fastest cornerback but with an outside corner of his length and size, the Eagles could possibly benefit. If he sticks to using his size advantage to make up for the lack of speed then Green can be a pretty disruptive defender at the pro level.
4th round, comp – DE Alex Highsmith
Highsmith became the first Niner to earn all-America honors and when you see the numbers, it’s easy to see why. He ranked 4th in the nation in sacks (14.0) and 5th in TFL (21.5).
At 6’4, 242 lbs, Highsmith flies out of the gate when attacking the outside, but has a beautiful rip move. The Eagles need some extra bulk at DE and the upside with Highsmith is staggeringly high and he’s a very fun player to watch.
5th round, pick 148 – LB Justin Strnad
Strnad isn’t your typical Linebacker, his lack of size could become a liability against the run but he makes up for it with his edge to edge speed. Strnad moves like a safety with his loose hips and isn’t hesitant when it comes to making his initial hit. I know you feel like this may possibly be Gerry 2.0 but in most cases nowadays an upgrade is better than the original almost every time. Although Strnad missed the season due to a ruptured bicep, his last 20 games with Wake Forest shouldn’t be overlooked as he racked up 69 total tackles before going down.
5th round, pick 150 – WR Antonio Gandy-Golden
Probably one of the most talked-about wideouts entering the Senior Bowl, AGG could be a big steal for a team that loves big receivers. The 6’4” 220 lbs wideout had a career senior season as he totaled 1,396 yards on 79 receptions with 10 touchdowns in just 13 starts. He also averaged 17.7 yards per catch, something that most Eagles receiver have failed to come close to. He’s an odd combination of size and speed and is able to create space, using his intangibles to his advantage.
6th round, pick 170 – RB A.J. Dillion
With the strong possibility of losing Jordan Howard, the Eagles could use some fresh legs to plug in behind Sanders and Scott. Boston College junior RB A.J. Dillon could fit the part. After racking up 1,685 rushing yards at the collegiate level while averaging 5.3 yards per carry and putting up 14 touchdowns, Dillion may fit the team as the in-between tackle runner. Dillion’s ability to drag tacklers while fighting for more yards could help alleviate the wear and tear on Sanders.
Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports
