The Eagles just traded two third round picks to Denver to move up from #24 to #13 to take DE Brandon Graham from Michigan in an effort to bolster their pass rush which was a major weakness last season.
Many of the draft experts expected them to move up to take S Earl Thomas from Texas, but I believe they filled a more pressing need by taking Graham.
I actually had DE Jason Pierre-Paul from South Florida ranked a little bit higher, but Graham is more of a pure pass rusher who should be able to step in right away to help the Bird's defense.
Draft Expert Matt McGuire had the following comments on this guy:
Strengths:
Plays with great strength
Outstanding motor and doesn't take plays off
Elite level of production (29.5 career sacks)
Sets the edge in run support
Strong, active hands
Extends arms - knows how to disengage
Shows rip, swim, spin, club moves
Makes plays in pursuit
Knows how to set up an offensive tackle
Tough and plays through injuries
Plays with very sound technique
Quick to diagnose
Good intangibles
Great Senior Bowl week
Weaknesses:
Lacks a quick first step
Unimpressive speed and explosion
Below average height and poor arm length (30.5")
Limited athletically
Not comfortable in coverage
Stiff hips
Can he play standing up?
Might be 4-3 left defensive end only
Overall this is a solid pick and worth the two #3's to get him.
No comments:
Post a Comment