Why the Eagles should Draft a Running Back with their First Pick

As the 2009 NFL college draft is right around the corner there has been a lot of conversation about what the Eagles should do with their two first round picks. There are some definite areas of need that have to be addressed most noteably offensive tackle, tight end, and running back. While conventional wisdom has me believing they will draft an offensive tackle with their first pick to replace the loss of Tra Thomas, there are some quality players available at running back which could be even a more important need fill.

Everyone agrees that Brian Westbrook is one of the top offensive weapons in the league and can alter the outcome of a game with one play. Anytime you have a player that demands that much attention from the opposing defense, it is bound to open up other opportunities for the entire offense. The fact remains though, he is turning 30 this year and is coming off the most injury ridden season of his career. Now that he has the long term contract he was looking for, it is time to take some of the burden off his shoulders to help extend his career. Looking at their current roster, Correll Buckhalter is gone and Lorenzo Booker has not proven to be the answer.

Taking a look at who might be available when the Eagles pick 21st in the first round, three running backs come to mind. Chris Wells from Ohio State, Knowshon Moreno from Georgia, and Donald Brown from Connecticut. Draft guru Mel Kiper Jr. has the Birds taking Brown with the this pick and his counter part Todd McShay has them picking Moreno. I like Wells because of his size. At 6′1″ , 235 lbs he could be the inside power back to compliment Westbook’s outside speed. This potent combination could take the pressure off of McNabb and the passing game creating a true balanced attack that would give defensive coordinators head fits. Andy Reid would have to be willing to alter his “pass first and often” mentality, but we all saw how well this offensive performed when the pass/run ratio was better balanced.

Having the luxury of two picks in the first round could allow them to acquire both a top notch offensive lineman and explosive running back, filling two of their primary offensive needs. It should be interesting to see the direction they decide to take come draft day