The NFL combine officially kicks off on February 27th and this year promises to be a special one for the Wide Receiver position. A class this deep has been unheard of in the history of the NFL – yes it’s that loaded. Fortunately, that’s a great thing for the Eagles. Whether they trade up, trade down, or stay put; one of these 9 prospects will most definitely be on their draft board.
CeeDee Lamb
Oklahoma – 6’2” 198Lbs
I know what you’re thinking. “Not possible, he’s out of our reach!” No one is out of reach for Howie “Long Arms” Roseman! Ok, that was corny but you get the point! CeeDee Lamb is a match made in heaven for Wentz and this offense. Lamb has the ability to take the top off a defense while also having the ability to break free with the ball in his hands. The best part about his game is his ability to track the deep ball, something that most, if not all, Eagles receivers lack outside of DeSean Jackson.
In 2019, CeeDee Lamb also broke 26 tackles while averaging 11.0 YAC, another key ingredient missing in the Eagles recipe. Lamb led the Big 12 with 14 receiving touchdowns on 62 receptions with 1,327 receiving yards to follow. If the Eagles are able to trade up or by some miracle sees Lamb fall to 21, He will be the WR1 that all of Philadelphia has been waiting for.
Henry Ruggs III
Alabama – 5’11” 188lbs
Labeled as the fastest receiver in the draft, Henry Ruggs will have all of Indianapolis waiting for the results of his 40 time. Ruggs finished his college career with 98 receptions and 1,716 receiving yards plus 1,791 scrimmage yards. Ruggs has no problem switching into another gear as he averaged 17.5 YPC while also averaging 9.0 YAC. Ruggs’ elusiveness was on display as he also broke 19 tackles.
Unlike many deep threats, Ruggs is as sure-handed as can be with only dropping 5 passes in his entire collegiate career. Depending on his combine results, Ruggs could be the second wideout taken off the board as most teams will covet the speedster. Ruggs has the potential to be a surefire WR1/WR2 in the NFL depending on what teams acquires his talents.
Tee Higgins
Clemson – 6’4” 216 lbs
Probably one of the most underrated, if not my favorite prospect of the WR class. Tee Higgins is a monster, standing at 6’4”. While he is taller than most speed receivers, Higgins has incredible breakaway speed still, He hauled in 15 of 23 deeps targets. Now I know what you’re thinking, the Eagles already have two “50/50” receivers. Well, here’s the thing, Alshon has no speed and may be on his way out and while the jury is still out on JJAW, Higgins would be the most complete receiver on this roster. He plays well from all three receiving spots, and has great body control and ball skills as well. Tee Higgins is sure to make a huge impact on whatever team drafts him.
Jalen Reagor
TCU – 5’11” 206 lbs
Reagor’s stock continues to increase as the combine begins. He’s probably one of the most electric players in this draft at his position. Reagor brings everything you need in a young receiver: Speed, versatility, explosiveness, and the whole 9 yards.
Reagor’s production dropped due to inconsistent play from the QB position at TCU but that still shouldn’t allow teams to overlook him. He’s a wizard with the ball in his hands but at times may have questionable receiving skills. All in all, Reagor should absolutely be a first-round option for the Eagles. With Moorehead leading the wideouts, he’ll have his hands full with excitement if the birds take Reagor.
Continued on page 2 below.
Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports