Philadelphia Eagles-Only Seven Round Mock Draft

3.) DE Danielle Hunter – LSU

Nov 15, 2014; Fayetteville, AR, USA; LSU Tigers defensive end Danielle Hunter (94) reacts on the bench during the second half of the game between the Arkansas Razorbacks and the LSU Tigers at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. The Arkansas Razorbacks defeat the LSU Tigers 17-0. Mandatory Credit: Jasen Vinlove-USA TODAY Sports

Rest assured, at some point the Eagles will take a pass rusher in this draft. Given the uncertainty with the future of Marcus Smith’s career, there’s no way Chip Kelly will leave the draft without another young player who can get after the quarterback. Even if it’s a ploy to push Smith and get the best out of him (doubtful), team’s can never have too many individuals with the ability to get to the quarterback.

In this instance, the Eagles tap into the LSU defensive lineman pool that yielded them Bennie Logan to secure yet another freakish athlete to play on the team’s most promising unit. Danielle Hunter is long, fast, explosive, and could end up developing into one of the more versatile linemen / pass rushers in the draft. Though Hunter won’t be setting the edge any time soon (252 pounds), many project Hunter to have the capabilities to play in space while still showing the ability to get after the quarterback.

Hunter was another combine darling who probably parlayed a successful college career into a second day draft selection. Despite leading the Bayou Bengals in TFL in 2014 (13), Hunter became a buzz-worthy prospect after the following performance at the combine. (Graph courtesy of Mockdraftable.com)

The Eagles did meet with Hunter prior to the draft. Though there are some times who will look at his thin frame and lack of definitive position, one has to figure Chip Kelly will see versatility and optionality instead. Given their wealth of talent along the defensive line and solid production from the outside linebacker position, Hunter would not be rushed into a key role upon being drafted. According to his draft profile on NFL.com, he also has special teams potential which is something we know Kelly loves in his young players. I may be hopeful that Hunter will even be here at this point. That said, there are always quality players who drop in the draft. Here’s to hoping Hunter is one of them.