With three out of the top 55 picks, it’s possible the Birds stay put and fill their coffers. But don’t be surprised if the Eagles look to improve their chances by trading up to select Georgia Tech DE Derrick Morgan. If the first draft under new GM Howie Roseman doesn’t feature much wheeling and dealing, look for it to go as follows:
First round (24th overall):
Maurkice Pouncey, C, Fla.
Size: 6-foot-5, 305 lbs.
40-time: 5.25
With Jamaal Jackson recovering from an ACL tear and turning 30 soon (May 8), this is the logical pick — if he’s on the board.
Second round (37th):
Patrick Robinson, CB, Fla.
Size: 5-11, 190
40-time: 4.38
The Eagles need a physical corner. Robinson fills that void. He is strong, fast and can play bump and run at the line of scrimmage.
Second round (55th):
Koa Misi, OLB, Utah
Size: 6-3, 251
40-time: 4.75
Misi, a former college DE with a quick first step, easily makes the transition to strongside LB. He’s worked out for most teams at that position.
Third round (70th):
Corey Wootton, DE, Northwestern
Size: 6-6, 270
40-time: 4.92
Wootton has a stronger motor and quicker first step than his 40-time predicts. He would add height to the Eagles’ undersized defensive line.
Fourth round (105th):
Darrell Stuckey, SS, Kansas
Size: 6-foot, 205
40-time: 4.30
Stuckey is a playmaker. He closes gaps quickly and hits well. Also plays with a great deal of emotion.
Fourth round (121st):
Kevin Thomas, CB, USC
Size: 6-foot, 192
40-time: 4.47
Tall, instinctual corner whose stock is rising. His injury history could make him a late steal.
Fifth round (137th):
Roddrick Muckelroy, OLB, Texas
Size: 6-2, 246
40-time: 4.73
He’s an aggressive, downhill defender with ability to play either strongside or weakside.
Sixth round (200th):
Robert Johnson, FS, Utah
Size: 6-2, 203
40-time: 4.56
Eagles will set record for quickest selection in draft history if Johnson is still here. His havoc for creating turnovers is reminiscent of Brian Dawkins.
Seventh round (244th):
Sean Lissemore, DT, William & Mary
Size: 6-4, 297
40-time: 4.81
Has rare combination of strength (36 reps at 225 lbs.) and speed for DT. The former wrestler knows how to throw offensive linemen off-balance and get in the backfield.
Seventh round (244th):
Kyle Jolley, OT, UNC
Size: 6-6, 311
40-time: 5.36
Jolley would be perfect backup to Winston Justice at right tackle and potential replacement for him down the road.
– Chris Cabott is a certified NFL Agent/Entertainment, Sports Media Lawyer, who has been researching the NFL Draft for the past five years.
