Philadelphia Eagles 2016 Draft: Results, Analysis, Grades

Feb 24, 2016; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Philadelphia Eagles executive vice president of football operations Howie Roseman speaks to the media during the 2016 NFL Scouting Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-USA TODAY Sports
Feb 24, 2016; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Philadelphia Eagles executive vice president of football operations Howie Roseman speaks to the media during the 2016 NFL Scouting Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-USA TODAY Sports /
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Nov 8, 2014; Salt Lake City, UT, USA; Oregon Ducks linebacker Joe Walker (35) between plays during the second half against the Utah Utes at Rice-Eccles Stadium. Oregon won 51-27. Mandatory Credit: Russ Isabella-USA TODAY Sports /

7th round (251 overall): Joe Walker, Linebacker, Oregon

Measurables: 6’2// 236 lbs.

Analysis:

With their final pick of the draft, the Philadelphia Eagles finally addressed their lack of depth at the linebacker position by picking Joe Walker out of Oregon.

One word comes to mind when talking about Walker. Productive. In his final two years at Oregon, he tailed 81 and 87 total tackles. He is also very quick for his position, recording a 4.56 forty at his pro day. A bit undersized at inside linebacker (236 lbs.) Walker needs to put on some size to contribute to the Eagles.

Next: Who is Isaac Seumalo?

Projection:

At the best, I see Walker as a sub-package player for the Eagles in the nickel formation, because of his quickness. He adds much need depth to a barren position for the Eagles and could make the 53 man roster because of that. Look for Walker to either contribute on special teams or on the practice squad.

GRADE: C+

It’s a solid pick to end the day for the Philadelphia Eagles. A clear “need” pick, this grade could fluctuate on whether if Walker ever makes a contribution for them.