Philadelphia Eagles: A deep look into potential 2019 NFL Draft picks

Defensive End

At defensive end, the Philadelphia Eagles have Brandon Graham and Derek Barnett starting as well as Vinny Curry, Josh Sweat, and possibly Chris Long on the bench which gives them pretty secure defensive end depth for now. Although Graham, Curry, and Long are in their 30’s and Barnett and Sweat are coming off injuries. The Eagles could look to add a defensive end or two for down the line hoping they can grow into valuable starters.

Although the Philadelphia Eagles at first glance look solid at DE, they may feel the need to draft one or two for the future which would lead them to look in the middle rounds of the draft. With no third round pick to use they will probably look to use their fourth or fifth pick. The first defensive end that will most likely be in this area is Austin Bryant out of Clemson. Bryant in 2018 had 44 tackles with 14.5 of them being for a loss and eight sacks proving he can rush the edge.  However, he isn’t seen as a true starter in the NFL yet instead being labeled as mold-able. It’s said lack of play strength and balance makes him wind up on the ground too much. However, he is credited with using his length to his advantage, being able to use his hands to get blockers off of him, and having a burst to the quarterback.

Another possible name that could be called for the Eagles is Anthony Nelson out of Iowa. Nelson had a standout career in college, as a redshirt freshman, he played in every game only starting once but recording 33 tackles eight for a loss including two forced fumbles and seven sacks. The following season he would have eight more total tackles as well as increasing his tackles for a loss by one. As well as blocking a kick, forcing two fumbles, and even breaking up four passes. In his final season at Iowa Nelson recorded 45 tackles, a staggering 13.5 for a loss, and a career-high 9.5 sacks.

Nelson is a 4-3 defensive end, perfect for the Eagles scheme, with a pro comparison to Carl Nassib. He’s said to have an NFL caliber frame, a high motor, an explosive take off, and the ability to get his arm over and force himself around a lineman trying to lean block him. However it is also said he lacks variety in his attack with basic rush counters,  is too slow getting off of blocks at time, and lacks some strength. Nelson is projected as a third or fourth round pick, if Philadelphia feels like he is a perfect fit they could possibly reach on him with their second, second round pick, or possibly hope he falls to them in the fourth round if no trade takes place.