6 Eagles on Thin ice Following the NFL Draft
By Randy Gurzi
![Philadelphia Eagles, James Bradberry Philadelphia Eagles, James Bradberry](https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/upload/c_crop,w_4892,h_2751,x_0,y_228/c_fill,w_720,ar_16:9,f_auto,q_auto,g_auto/images/ImagnImages/mmsport/190/01hwgashfm75h6mf7rfe.jpg)
5. DeVante Parker, WR
There was a time when DeVante Parker was one of the top young wideouts in the game. He had 72 receptions for 1,202 yards with nine touchdowns for the Miami Dolphins in 2019. He never repeated that success and was sent to the New England Patriots in 2022 and spent two seasons with them.
Parker had 64 receptions for 933 yards for the Pats but wasn't re-signed. Instead, he agreed to terms on a one-year deal with the Eagles. In need of depth at wide receiver, Parker had a shot at being the team's WR3 but that might no longer be the case after the way the draft unfolded.
Philly added Ainias Smith who is undersized at 5-foot-9 and 190 pounds but is an ideal slot receiver. He had 53 receptions for 795 yards with two touchdowns in 2023. He should find himself in the plans early and often.
After adding Smith, the Eagles took Johnny Wilson at Pick No. 185. An enormous wideout at 6-foot-6 and 231 pounds. There will be those who want to try him at tight end, which is also a need for Philadelphia, but his 4.52 time in the 40-yard dash and 37-inch vertical proves he has the athleticism to play wideout in the NFL.
Despite his size, Wilson is also a better fit in the slot and could be a power option there while Smith offeres a shifty player to throw in the mix. The possibilities are deep and that could make it tough on Parker this year.