Philadelphia Eagles Play Their Cards Right in 2012 NFL Draft

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2012 NFL Draft Biggest Steals And Reaches: Fletcher Cox A Steal For Philadelphia Eagles

The Philadelphia Eagles got their man, and he's one of the 2012 NFL Draft's biggest steals.

For weeks, maybe even months, leading up to the 2012 NFL Draft, the Eagles were linked to defensive tackle Fletcher Cox. After so much speculation, the Eagles traded up to select him with the 12th pick, a move that Sports Illustrated's Tony Pauline labeled one of the 2012 NFL Draft's biggest steals.

The Eagles' desire to acquire Cox was well documented before the draft. The fact they gave little away to move up three slots and choose him makes this a huge coup for the organization.

The Eagles were thrilled when Cox dropped out of the Top 10 and jumped on the opportunity to select him. They surrendered their own first-round pick (No. 15), a fourth-rounder (114) and a fifth-rounder (172) for the 12th pick and the right to draft Cox.

For all of your Philadelphia Eagles news and analysis, head to Bleeding Green Nation. For more on the 2012 NFL Draft, visit this storystream. For a complete list of 2012 NFL Draft results, visit SBNation.com. For even more comprehensive coverage of the NFL Draft, visitMocking The Draft.

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2013 NFL Mock Draft: Philadelphia Eagles Linked To Ray-Ray Armstrong

If you're not over the 2012 NFL Draft, move along.

In SB Nation's 2013 NFL Mock Draft, Ryan Van Bibber has the Philadelphia Eagles selecting 17th overall (that's right, picking the Eagles to finish outside the playoffs again) and selecting Ray-Ray Armstrong of Miami (FL).

Armstrong is a highly touted safety who would come in and provide immediate competition to the triumvirate of Kurt Coleman, Nate Allen and Jaiquawn Jarrett.

Both Allen and Jarrett are recent second round picks so Philadelphia might be hesitant to grab another safety so high, but may not have a choice. Jarrett especially hasn't performed up to expectations.

it's hard to handicap anything a year in advance including something as fluid as the NFL Draft. However, Van Bibber does a nice job of looking at the areas of need and matching them here.

Armstrong is a very talented player but someone who unfortunately comes with baggage. He's been suspended for dealing with well-known booster Nevin Shapiro and some tweeting got him in hot water.

For more on the Eagles, please be sure to check out Bleeding Green Nation and SB Nation Philly for all the latest news and updates.

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2012 NFL Draft Grades: The Philadelphia Eagles Get High Marks From The SB Nation Studios

With the 2012 NFL Draft now in the books, grades are being given out to all of the teams for their troubles.

In our video breakdown of each team's selections Brad Wells of SB Nation gives the Philadelphia Eagles an ' A ', the highest mark for any team in the NFC East.

2012 NFL Draft Grades and Analysis: NFC East Edition (via sbnation)

Wells raves about the Eagles going out and solidifying the defense by using four of their top five picks on defense. he's also a big fan of Fletcher Cox, who is a rarity as a 4-3 defensive tackle who has the ability to push the pocket and pressure the quarterback.

Wells also approves of the Brandon Boykin pick. The Georgia star was expected by many to go on the second day but instead fell to the fifth round for Philadelphia.

Another player Wells is high on is Vinny Curry, who can come off the edge and make some plays. He's another pass-rusher to add into the mix for Andy Reid and company.

For more on the Eagles, please be sure to check out our blog Bleeding Green Nation and SB Nation Philly for all the latest news and updates.

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2012 NFL Draft Grades: Eagles Earn High Marks For 2012 Haul

The Eagles focused on defense in the 2012 NFL Draft and so far have earned high marks from various draft analysts for their work. Obviously, these grades are almost totally meaningless as it's impossible to "grade" a draft class without seeing the players actually perform... but we all love the validation of seeing our team graded well don't we?

As we noted over the weekend, Mel Kiper was very high on the Eagles draft giving them an A, tied for the highest grade of any team.

"One of the best drafts in terms of lining up needs and getting guys at spots where I didn’t think they’d still be around," said Kiper. "They moved up to get Fletcher Cox, an immediate starter. Mychal Kendricks is a perfect fit, and at No. 46, a really good value. The Eagles look a lot better up the middle after this weekend"

CBS Sports' Rob Rang also gave the Eagles an "A" for their effort.

"So much of the focus of the Eagles' wide-9 defense is placed on the outside pass rushers," said Rang. "For this scheme to work effectively, however, the team needs penetrating interior defenders -- just like Fletcher Cox, the best pass-rushing defensive tackle in the draft, who could prove a steal at No. 12 overall. The Eagles landed arguably the draft's most explosive linebacker in Cal's Mychal Kendricks, the reigning Pac-12 Defensive Player of the Year and an ideal wide-9 edge rusher in Marshall's Vinny Curry in the third round"

John Czarnecki of Fox Sports also liked the Eagles draft, handing them a "B."

"Coach Andy Reid took a lot of heat last season for naming offensive-line coach Juan Castillo his defensive coordinator," Czarnecki wrote. "Well, this year Castillo has run out of excuses, because they drafted some tremendous defensive talent. Fletcher Cox can anchor the interior of Philadelphia's wide-nine approach with its pass rushers. Cal linebacker Mychal Kendricks was the second-best middle linebacker in a 4-3 scheme."

Pete Prisco's came in between the others at "B+"

"The Eagles landed three good defensive players with their first three picks, including top pick Fletcher Cox. They had to improve that side of the ball. After that, they picked up some quality players in the latter rounds. It was a good weekend for the Eagles."

For scouting reports and analysis of the entire Philadelphia Eagles 2012 draft class, check out draft recap post.

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2012 NFL Draft Grades: Eagles Earn 'B' From SB Nation

The 2012 NFL Draft has ended, so naturally it is time to grade out what happened. Mel Kiper weighed in earlier, giving the Philadelphia Eagles an "A" for their nine-player haul. SB Nation wasn't quite as high on the Eagles' draft, though they still gave Philly a fairly high "B" rating.

Fletcher Cox and Mychal Kendricks will help that defense. Kendricks, alongside DeMeco Ryans, should clear up those linebacker issues they had last season. Good call to grab Georgia cornerback Brandon Boykin in the fourth round. He provides a replacement for Asante Samuel and has a shot to see plenty of time working in the slot.

Did they really need to take quarterback Nick Foles?

Ryan Van Bibber agreed with Kiper that the Eagles gave their defense a much-needed boost, but wasn't as high on the addition of Foles. Despite the decent marks, Philadelphia actually came out the lowest rated among all four teams in the NFC East, according to the mothership.

For all of your Philadelphia Eagles news and analysis, head to Bleeding Green Nation. For more on the 2012 NFL Draft, visit this storystream. For a complete list of 2012 NFL Draft results, visit SBNation.com. For even more comprehensive coverage of the NFL Draft, visit Mocking The Draft.

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2012 NFL Draft Grades: Mel Kiper Has High Marks For Eagles

The Eagles made a number of major moves to improve their defense in the 2012 NFL grade and according to ESPN’s draft guru Mel Kiper, they hit on them all. Kiper gave the Eagles an “A” for their efforts this weekend, tied for his highest mark for any team.

“One of the best drafts in terms of lining up needs and getting guys at spots where I didn’t think they’d still be around,” said Kiper. “They moved up to get Fletcher Cox, an immediate starter. Mychal Kendricks is a perfect fit, and at No. 46, a really good value. The Eagles look a lot better up the middle after this weekend. If Vinny Curry came off the board really early in the second round, nobody would have been surprised, so to get him at No. 59 is a steal. Nick Foles has the upside of an NFL starter, and Andy Reid could turn him into something. Brandon Boykin is my No. 9-ranked corner, so I love the value as a fourth-rounder. I thought they might get a tackle earlier, but it’s hard to quibble given the value they got with every pick early on. I love this draft, and Bryce Brown will be an interesting story if he sticks. Keep an eye on Brandon Washington, a sixth-rounder with the upside of a starter at guard.”

Kiper also handed out “A” grades to the Bengals and Buccaneers. Among the drafts that Kiper did not like were the Seahawks, Raiders & Saints, who all received “C-” grades.

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2012 NFL Draft: Eagles Sign 4 Undrafted Free Agents Immediately Following Draft

As reported by NEPatriotsdraft, the Philadelphia Eagles wasted no time following the 2012 NFL Draft, signing four undrafted free agents:

• Chris Polk - Polk is a sophomore running back coming from the Washington Huskies, racking up over 1400 yards and being selected for the All-PAC 12 team in his 2011 season. He saw his draft stock fall due to rumors of injury, leading to his free agent signing with Philadelphia.
• Cliff Harris - Harris is a cornerback coming from the University of Oregon. Teams stayed away from Harris primarily due to character issues, which cost him his 2011 season when he was suspended after being cited for speeding while having a suspended license. In 2010 he shined, leading the NCAA in passes defended, racking up five interceptions and four punt return touchdowns.
• Emil Igwenagu - Igwenagu comes out of University of Massachusetts and has decent speed. At 6'1" tall, he's undersized for the tight end position at the NFL level and may have to transition to halfback. His blocking skills aren't great, further detracting from his offensive versitility.
• Matt Camilli - A long-snapper out of University of Texas at El Paso, Camilli saw action snapping for punts, going his junior year without a blocked punt and collecting four tackles.

For all of your Philadelphia Eagles news and analysis, head to Bleeding Green Nation. For more on the 2012 NFL Draft, visit this storystream. For a complete list of 2012 NFL Draft results, visit SBNation.com. For even more comprehensive coverage of the NFL Draft, visit Mocking The Draft.

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Eagles Draft Picks: The Full 2012 Class

The Eagles selected 9 total players in their 2012 draft class. See every guy who will be "putting the wings on" this fall along with a short scouting report on each.

Round 1 - Fletcher Cox, DT, Mississippi St. - Eagles traded up to grab arguably the highest rated DL in the draft. Cox played all over the Bulldogs defensive line, but will play DT for the Eagles. He is an active, penetrating defender who should fit very well in Jim Washburn's wide 9.

Round 2 - Mychal Kendricks, LB, Cal - Kendricks was one of the stars of the combine this year dominating the rest of the LBs in virtually every workout. He's got the stats and game tape to back up the combine performance as well. He was named Pac-12 defensive player of the year as a Senior and his 36.5 tackles for a loss are a school record.

Round 2 - Vinny Curry, DE, Marshall - Great value pick by the Eagles here. Curry was a sack machine at Marshall recording 23 over the last two seasons. As a bonus, he also grew up an Eagles fan in Neptune, NJ.

Round 3 - Nick Foles, QB, Arizona - We know that Andy Reid loves drafting QBs, so this isn't a shock pick. Foles has great size at 6-5, 243 and is an accurate thrower with a big arm. What he does not have is mobility. He's basically a statue in the pocket. The Eagles haven't developed any starters with these mid round QB picks, but they have had success trading them for value later.

Round 4 - Brandon Boykin, CB/KR, Georgia - One of the best athletes in the draft, Boykin played slot corner at Georgia and was one of the most dangerous return men in the nation. He even played some offense for the Bulldogs, so he's certainly an exciting guy overall. The problem is that he's very small at 5-9, 182 and probably will never be able to match up with bigger NFL WRs.

Round 5 - Dennis Kelly, OT, Purdue - A big guy with a 6-8 frame that will likely continue to fill out. He needs to get stronger and refine his technique at the NFL level. As a depth/developmental pick he'll get that chance.

Round 6 - Marvin McNutt Jr, WR, Iowa - An extremely productive WR at Iowa who caught 84 passes for over 1,300 yards and 12 TDs last season. He's a converted QB who only moved to WR in 2009. He's got ideal size at 6-3 and good intangibles as he was Iowa's captain last season. Not elite speed and isn't a fully polished route runner.

Round 6 - Brandon Washington, OL, Miami - Was once one of the more highly sought after OL recruits coming into college but never quite developed into the elite LT some thought he would be. In the NFL he will transition to guard and should fit well in Howard Mudd's scheme. He likes to pull and is familiar with zone blocking schemes.

Round 7 - Bryce Brown, RB, Kansas State - An extremely speculative pick on a guy who was more highly rated out of high school than Alabama's Trent Richardson, but never put it together in college. After one year at Tennessee, he transferred back home to Kansas State where he carried the ball only three times in 2 years.

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Eagles Draft Picks 2012: Bryce Brown, 7th Round

With their final pick in the 2012 NFL Draft the Philadelphia Eagles have selected Bryce Brown, RB, Kansas State. Brown has great size at 6-0, 233 lbs and impressive speed to match, having run a 4.5 40 at his pro day. The main problem with him is that he's barely played football in 2 years. He just three carries in 2 seasons at Kansas State.

He was originally one of those most highly sought after recruits in the country and chose Tennessee, but according to him, family troubles ended up forcing him transfer back home to Kansas State.

He's an entirely speculative pick as National Football Post says.

Watching him run in Lane Kiffin's zone scheme as a freshman, the guy was an impressive back with a lot of natural talent. He was the number one ranked recruit out of high school, ahead of Trent Richardson in 2009 and no doubt has the skill set to play in the league. The biggest question mark for him going forward is his overall character.

That is the final pick for the Eagles in the 2012 NFL Draft.

For all your Eagle news and analysis, head over to Bleeding Green Nation. For more on the 2012 NFL Draft, visit SB Nation Philly. For a complete list of 2012 NFL Draft results as they happen, visit SBNation.com. For even more comprehensive coverage of the NFL Draft, visit Mocking The Draft.

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Eagles Draft Picks 2012: OL Brandon Washington, 6th Round

With the 200th overall pick in the 2012 NFL draft, the Eagles have selected OL Brandon Washington from Miami. The 6-3, 320 lb Washington started every game at left tackle for the Hurricanes over the last two seasons but likely projects to guard in the NFL.

Here’s the National Football Post scouting report.

Impression: The talent is there for this guy to mature into a guard you can win with consistently inside at the next level. He needs to improve his pad level in the in-line game and tighten up his footwork in all areas. However, with a year of seasoning he certainly should mature into an above-average guard in the NFL with the talent to start at right

Played in a zone scheme, athletic and likes to pull… This is exactly what Mudd’s scheme calls for. So as depth goes, Washington seems to be a very good fit.

For all your Eagle news and analysis, head over to Bleeding Green Nation. For more on the 2012 NFL Draft, visit SB Nation Philly. For a complete list of 2012 NFL Draft results as they happen, visit SBNation.com. For even more comprehensive coverage of the NFL Draft, visit Mocking The Draft.

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Eagles Draft Picks 2012: WR Marvin McNutt, 6th Round

The Eagles have used the first of their two 6th round picks on WR Marvin McNutt from Iowa. McNutt has ideal size at 6-3, 216 and was incredibly productive at Iowa. He racked up 82 catches for over 1300 yards and 12 TDs last season. He was also named the Hawkeye's team captain last season and has been on the squad's leadership council all four years.

Here's the National Football Post scouting report.

Displays good savvy as a route runner on vertical routes, looks off defenders, is patient stemming his routes and can put his foot in the ground and use his short area quickness to gain a step and box out. However, gets leggy on sharply breaking routes, rounds off his angles and doesn't have a great burst out of his breaks. Looks a bit high cut/tight in the hipped as well when trying to re-direct and isn't ever going to be a guy who separates consistently on sharply breaking routes. Will get after it in the run game on the edge as a blocker. Is long armed, possesses strong hands and does a nice job sticking to blocks through the play.

The guy has very good hands and ideal size but still learning the position. He only moved to QB in 2009. So there's certainly some more development that will happen there.

For all your Eagle news and analysis, head over to Bleeding Green Nation. For more on the 2012 NFL Draft, visit SB Nation Philly. For a complete list of 2012 NFL Draft results as they happen, visit SBNation.com. For even more comprehensive coverage of the NFL Draft, visit Mocking The Draft.

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Eagles Draft Picks 2012: Dennis Kelly, OT, Fifth Round

With the 18th pick in the fifth round of the 2012 NFL Draft, the Philadelphia Eagles have selected offensive tackle, Dennis Kelly, from the Purdue Boilermakers.

The National Football Post ranked Kelly as their 25th best offensive tackle. Here's what they had to say about him.

Works hard in the run game, but doesn't fire off the ball low enough to create leverage for himself. Pumps his legs through contact, but displays poor hand placement and again is more of a grabber than striker. Hands consistently go outside the body of his opponent however; he is tough to disengage from through and works hard to stay on blocks. But, looks to be holding a lot of the time. Is a decent athlete getting out to the second level and reaching a target in space.

For all your Eagle news and analysis, head over to Bleeding Green Nation. For more on the 2012 NFL Draft, visit SB Nation Philly. For a complete list of 2012 NFL Draft results as they happen, visit SBNation.com. For even more comprehensive coverage of the NFL Draft, visit Mocking The Draft.

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2012 NFL Draft Day 3: Temple LB Tahir Whitehead Selected By Detroit Lions

The Detroit Lions selected Temple linebacker prospect, Tahir Whitehead, in the fifth round of the 2012 NFL Draft. Whitehead is the third Temple Player to be drafted, along with Bernard Pierce and Evan Rodriguez.

Here's what the National Football Post had to say about Whitehead, who was their 37th ranked outside linebacker:

Isn't a real imposing kid, struggles vs. run game and isn't a real dynamic athlete. If he played lower it would give himself more of a chance to make a roster, but as of now looks like a free agent type linebacker as there isn't too much to get excited about.

For all your Eagle news and analysis, head over to Bleeding Green Nation. For more on the 2012 NFL Draft, visit SB Nation Philly. For a complete list of 2012 NFL Draft results as they happen, visit SBNation.com. For even more comprehensive coverage of the NFL Draft, visit Mocking The Draft.

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2012 NFL Draft Day 3: Temple TE Evan Rodriguez Selected By Chicago Bears

Temple Owls tight end prospect Evan Rodriguez has been selected by the Chicago Bears with the 111th overall pick in the 2012 NFL Draft, Rodriguez was ranked by ESPN as the eighth best TE in the draft.

Evan’s college playing career included 811 yards and 7 touchdowns. He is a slightly undersized TE at 6’1" and 239 pounds, but what he lacks in size, makes up in speed recording a 4.58 40-time at the Scouting Combine. Rodriguez showed durability in his college career missing only one game due to undisclosed reasons. He is a tough player who shows his toughness by running hard after the catch.

For more on the 2012 NFL Draft, visit SB Nation Philly and for in-depth analysis on the Chicago Bears be sure to visit Windy City Gridiron. For a complete list of 2012 NFL Draft results as they happen, visit SBNation.com. For even more comprehensive coverage of the NFL Draft, visitMocking The Draft.

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2012 NFL Draft Best Available: Lamar Miller, Orson Charles Among Best On Board To Begin Day Three

Many of the headline names are gone at this stage of the 2012 NFL Draft, but the Philadelphia Eagles will still look to assemble more talent when they use their next pick, the 123rd overall selection.

According to Mocking The Draft's 2012 NFL Draft Best Available Players list, some of the top talents remaining on the board include Miami running back Lamar Miller, Georgia tight end Orson Charles, Alabama defensive tackle Josh Chapman, Louisiana-Lafayette tight end Ladarious Green and Nebraska cornerback Alfonzo Dennard.

The Eagles also have the 153rd pick in the fifth round, 194th and 200th picks in the sixth round, and the 229th pick in the seventh round.

For all your Eagle news and analysis, head over to Bleeding Green Nation. For more on the 2012 NFL Draft, visit SB Nation Philly. For a complete list of 2012 NFL Draft results as they happen, visit SBNation.com. For even more comprehensive coverage of the NFL Draft, visit Mocking The Draft.

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2012 NFL Draft: TV Schedule, Start Time And More

The Philadelphia Eagles used their first three picks in the 2012 NFL Draft to solidify their defense, then went offensive to select Arizona quarterback Nick Foles in the third round. On the third and final draft day on Saturday, the Eagles will choose five times over the final four rounds.

Including Foles, the Eagles' picks from the first two days follow:

Round One, Pick 12: Fletcher Cox, defensive tackle, Mississippi State

Round Two, Pick 46: Mychal Kendricks, linebacker, California

Round Two, Pick 59: Vinny Curry, defensive end, Marshall

Round Three, Pick 88: Nick Foles, quarterback, Arizona

2012 NFL Draft Start Time: 12 p.m., Saturday, April 28

TV Schedule: ESPN

For all your Eagle news and analysis, head over to Bleeding Green Nation. For more on the 2012 NFL Draft, visit SB Nation Philly. For a complete list of 2012 NFL Draft results as they happen, visit SBNation.com. For even more comprehensive coverage of the NFL Draft, visit Mocking The Draft.

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VIDEO: Nick Foles On Jon Gruden's QB Camp

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Nick Foles Scouting Report: Eagles Draft QB In 3rd Round

The Eagles did what many draftniks expected and grabbed themselves a mid round QB to develop in the form of Arizona’s Nick Foles. The 6-4 Foles really presents no threat to starter Michael Vick, but does give the Eagles a young arm to develop as a possible starter down the road or as their recent history suggests, future trade bait.

Here’s what Scouts Inc has to say about Foles.

While he doesn’t have the pocket mobility you’d like to see in the modern-era quarterback, he can beat pressure with a quick release. He also has a strong arm and above-average accuracy.

They also talked about how he fits in the Eagles organization. One note though, they’re actually wrong in saying that Michael Vick’s contract is up after this year. It’s not. He’s actually signed through 2017, however he doesn’t really have guaranteed money left on his deal after next season.

How he fits: You would not think this is a position of need, but Michael Vick is over 30 and his contract is up after this season. Backup Mike Kafka knows the system but is not special nor is UFA pickup Trent Edwards. Andy Reid loves to develop young QBs. He has at least a year to see if Foles can be that guy. The Eagles are always aware that their young guys can either become a starter or become trade bait.

Andy Reid has always liked bringing in young QBs, so Foles is hardly out of character for the Eagles. What is interesting is what a contrast Foles is to the other QBs on the Eagles roster. While Vick is “smallish” and extremely mobile, Foles is basically a statue but he’s huge at 6-4, 240. He’s also got a much bigger arm than Mike Kafka.

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2012 NFL Draft Results: Eagles Draft Vinny Curry, OLB/DE From Marshall

With the 59th pick overall of the 2012 NFL Draft, the Philadelphia Eagles have selected Vinny Curry, outside linebacker / defensive end from the Marshall Thundering Herd. This pick matches projections for Curry, as the 6'3" 266lb player was expected to go in the middle of the second round.

Curry was a three year starter for Marshall, and saw big production in his junior and senior year. The 59 tackles and 3.5 sacks from his 2011 season were especially impressive considering that he consistently drew double teams. Curry could fit into a 4-3 scheme or a 3-4, and opinion is split on which would favor his talents. Curry has a strong motor and good power, but what draws the most praise is his work ethic. From Mel Kiper:

You turn on a Marshall game, I don't care who it's against.. You notice the kid. He's a difference maker. He had 22 more tackles this year than Quinton Coples. He had 37 more tackles than Bruce Irvin. The guy's productive, that's all he does. And he loves the game.

The Eagles didn't have an acute need for a DE/OLB, but Curry was too talented for them to pass up.

For all your Eagle news and analysis, head over to Bleeding Green Nation. For more on the 2012 NFL Draft, visit SB Nation Philly. For a complete list of 2012 NFL Draft results as they happen, visit SBNation.com. For even more comprehensive coverage of the NFL Draft, visit Mocking The Draft.

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Mychal Kendricks Scouting Report: Eagles Move To Fix LB Corps

The Eagles made a major move to improve their LB corps earlier this offseason when they dealt for former Texans Pro Bowl LB DeMeco Ryans. He will fill the MIKE spot as well the chief leadership role for the Eagles LB corps.

However, the Eagles still had need on either side of him. They selected Cal LB Mychal Kendricks in the hopes of filling at least one of those.

Here’s what Scouts Inc had to say about Kendricks.

Kendricks makes up for his lack of ideal take-on skills with instincts and quickness. So, he beats blockers to the point instead of stacking and shredding. His real value is on third down, though. He can both rush the passer and make plays in coverage.

They also say that this finally may be a sign that the Eagles will solve their long standing LB problem.

How he fits: The linebacker corps for the Eagles was their worst unit a year ago and it wasn’t until late in the season that they finally started to gel in their Wide Nine scheme. They gave up a lot of big yards early. They have four young guys outside that have developmental qualities, but not are complete yet. The real question now, are they just backups and special teams guys. DeMeco Ryans is an excellent free agent pickup from Houston at MLB and he will solidify the front seven. But their need is probably for an OLB that could start and make plays or an ILB who could backup Ryans. Kendricks has experience in both positions, He gives them another interesting young guy to develop. They’ll eventually get this position right.

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Mel Kiper's 2012 NFL Mock Draft Round 2: Eagles Select Lavonte David And Kirk Cousins

ESPN draft guru Mel Kiper Jr released his second round mock draft ahead of tonight’s broadcast of the 2nd and 3rd rounds. Eagles fans will probably like his first pick, but probably not the second.

Here’s what Kiper predicts.

#46 – Lavonte David, LB, Nebraska – A tackling machine, he’s a perfect weakside LB. Covers the field

#51 – Kirk Cousins, QB, Michigan State – I know Philly likes him and might take the leap here. Good guy to develop.

Lavonte David is a really good player and would fit the Eagles perfectly. He could slide into the SAM linebacker spot and potentially start from day one. Outside linebacker is arguably the Eagles biggest need at this point, so David would fill that hole well.

As for the other pick, I’ve said consistently through this process that I have no interest in drafting a QB. Not only do I not think there’s not a pressing need, but it’s generally been pointless to draft a QB in the second round. This idea of just getting a guy and developing him really is a misnomer. Only one QB taken in the 2nd round in the last 6 years is currently a starter and only one has made a Pro Bowl. They’re the same guy. Andy Dalton… and even though his Pro Bowl appearance was mostly just by default, it does go to show that 2nd round QBs don’t usually yield much value.

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2012 NFL Draft Best Available: Devon Still Among Best Players Remaining On Board

Former Penn State defensive tackle Devon Still is among the best players still available as the NFL Draft enters its second day on Friday.

Still was originally projected to go in the better half of the first round when analysts begin filling out 2012 NFL Mock Drafts months ago, but his draft stock gradually slipped as the draft approached.

According to Mocking The Draft's 2012 NFL Draft Best Available list, Still is the second-best remaining prospect as the second round approaches Friday night. Other top prospects left on the board include Courtney Upshaw, Jonathan Martin, Peter Konz, Brandon Thompson and Cordy Glenn.

For more mock draft information, check out Mocking The Draft. Prospect profiles can also be found at the National Football Post, an SB Nation partner. If you prefer Eagles information, please be sure to check out Bleeding Green Nation and SB Nation Philly for all the latest news and updates.

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2012 NFL Draft Grades: Eagles Receive 'B' For Fletcher Cox Pick

The Philadelphia Eagles traded up from 15 to 12 to draft Fletcher Cox from Mississippi State, which is widely viewed as a good move. Joel Thorman of SB Nation gave the pick a 'B' in his draft grades post.

B - A.J. Smith 'Good But Not Elite' Class

Eagles: Philly moved up three spots for Fletcher Cox, one of the top defensive tackles in the draft. Talent meets need.

The Eagles will look to build on their solid start to the 2012 NFL Draft with three picks on day two.

For more on the Eagles, please be sure to check out Bleeding Green Nation and SB Nation Philly for all the latest news and updates. For more mock draft information, check out Mocking The Draft. Prospect profiles can also be found at the National Football Post, an SB Nation partner. For more throughout the draft regarding the Eagles later tonight, follow this StoryStream.

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2012 NFL Mock Draft Round 2: Eagles Select Lavonte David And Josh Robinson

The Philadelphia Eagles traded up to the twelfth spot in the first round of the 2012 NFL Draft and selected defensive tackle, Fletcher Cox, from Mississippi State on Day one. On Friday, they'll look to add three more impact players in the second and third rounds. Who does Mocking The Draft have them taking in their second round mock?

46. Philadelphia Eagles - Lavonte David, OLB, Nebraska
First-round pick: Fletcher Cox, DT

Signing DeMeco Ryans was a good move at middle linebacker for the Eagles. But on the weak side, the team still has Brian Rolle and Casey Matthews at the top of the depth chart. David is a sideline-to-sideline player who will be a playmaker for Philadelphia.

51. Philadelphia Eagles - Josh Robinson, CB, Central Florida
First-round pick: Fletcher Cox, DT

The Eagles finally traded Asante Samuel and Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie is approaching free agency. What is often considered a strength for the team is now a need that the playmaking Robinson fills.

For more on the Eagles, please be sure to check out Bleeding Green Nation and SB Nation Philly for all the latest news and updates. For more mock draft information, check out Mocking The Draft. Prospect profiles can also be found at the National Football Post, an SB Nation partner. For more throughout the draft regarding the Eagles later tonight, follow this StoryStream.

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2012 NFL Draft: Day Two TV Schedule, Start Time And More

With day one of the 2012 NFL Draft behind us, we look ahead to day two, which is scheduled to get underway at 7:00 PM.

Rounds two and three will be completed on Friday night, as each team has seven minutes to make their selection in the second round and five minutes in the third. The draft will be televised on both ESPN and NFL Network.

The Philadelphia Eagles made a modest splash in the first round, trading up to the twelfth pick to select Fletcher Cox from Mississippi State. They'll add three players to their 2012 Draft Class on day two, as they select 46, 51 and 88th overall.

For more on the Eagles, please be sure to check out Bleeding Green Nation and SB Nation Philly for all the latest news and updates. For more mock draft information, check out Mocking The Draft. Prospect profiles can also be found at the National Football Post, an SB Nation partner. For more throughout the draft regarding the Eagles later tonight, follow this StoryStream.

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Fletcher Cox Scouting Report: Eagles Dramatically Upgrade Defensive Interior

The Philadelphia Eagles traded up from #15 to the #12 and selected Mississippi St DT Fletcher Cox. First with the trade for DeMeco Ryans and now with the drafting of Fletcher Cox, the Eagles have likely turned the interior of their defense, a major weakness last season, into a major strength.

To learn more about Cox though, let’s go through a few scouting reports.

Draft Insiders calls Cox a “blue chip prospect.”

This is a unique defender who is capable of being a difference maker with early impact ability on either front line. Athletic tackle with the skill set to become a rookie starter after being battle tested in the tough SEC where he showed dominant talent vs NFL caliber linemen. Top 10 value with mid round prospect overall. The most NFL ready defensive linemen in this class and capable of being an immediate impact starter. Clubs like the Dolphins, Bengals and Seahawks are highly interested in the top half of 1st round. Athletic defender with impact ability and future Pro Bowl regular.

NFL.com draft profile

Cox is an early-entry junior who was a 2 1/2-year starter at DT for Mississippi State. He is a raw athlete who has room to develop and likely will pull value from that, considering he has an impressive frame and is one of the more talented athletes at the position in the country. He relies heavily on his natural ability to make splash plays and has a major upside.

Mocking the Draft

Cox, a three-year starter for Mississippi State, is arguably the best one-gap defensive tackle in this year’s draft. He finished the 2011 season with 56 tackles with 14.5 tackles for loss and 4.5 sacks. That earned him first-team All-SEC honors. Cox compares favorably to Jason Jones of the Seattle Seahawks.

ESPN

“Explosive bull-rusher that can collapse the pocket whether he’s lined up on the inside or the outside. Can be very effective as a bull-rusher when he stays low. Effective hand-fighter that flashes rip and pull moves. Just average lateral mobility and isn’t going to get many offensive linemen off balance with side-to-side moves. Is versatile and can play all along the DL, but best pass-rush potential in NFL is inside. "

“Relentless might be an overstatement, but overall motor is very good. Doesn’t give up when he fails to win with first move. Not quite as thick or strong as Corey Luigit (Chargers), but shares a lot of similarities in terms of motor and versatility. Pursues hard from behind when there’s even a slight chance of getting back into the play. He’s a tempo setter up front. Plays with an edge and isn’t afraid to get in opponents’ faces. "

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2012 NFL Draft Results: Eagles Trade Up, Take DT Fletcher Cox

The Eagles traded up from #15 to #12 with the Seattle Seahawks and got their man, Mississippi St DT Fletcher Cox. The 6-4, 298 Cox has been rumored to be the Eagles #1 target for months now, so when the 12th pick came up with him still on the board, the Eagles left nothing to chance. They gave up their 1st, a 4th and a 6th in the trade.

Cox should be a perfect fit in Jim Washburn's wide 9 system, which calls for athletic DTs who can get penetration. That description fits Cox to a T. He has a rare combination of a size, speed and strength that made him one of the stars of the NFL combine. He ran a 4.79 40 and did 30 reps on the bench.

But unlike some "workout warriors," Cox has the tape to back it up. He got off to a slow start last season, but dominated in the later half of the year for the Bulldogs.

Cox was one of the players held a private workout with, in fact they had Jim Washburn himself conducting that workout.

Scouts Inc says the additions of DeMeco Ryans and Fletcher Cox will dramatically upgrade the interior of the Eagles defense.

Even though it initially looks like the Eagles are in pretty good shape on the inside of their defensive line, in this Wide Nine defensive scheme, where they really play their linebackers on the edge, it gives the interior of this defense a lot of space to cover. He should be an excellent inside penetrator and a lot of one-gap schemes and the Eagles love to use a deep rotation on the defensive line and come at offenses in waves. Andy Reid will never pass on a good interior player. With Cox upfront and newly acquired DeMeco Ryans at MLB coming from Houston as a free agent, the interior of this defense has dramatically been upgraded.

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NFL Mock Draft 2012: Eagles To Select Chandler Jones

Some have the Philadelphia Eagles trading up into the top-10 -- possibly as high as No. 7 to select Mississippi State's Fletcher Cox. Others have the team trading down for more. Should they stay at No. 15, though, Pro Football Talk, which released its final mock draft earlier this afternoon, has the team selecting Syracuse defensive end Chandler Jones.

At 6-foot-5, Jones had 38 total tackles and 4.5 sacks for the Orange last fall and was an All-Big-East First Team selection. He played in seven games and started each one.

For more on the Eagles, please be sure to check out Bleeding Green Nation and SB Nation Philly for all the latest news and updates. For more mock draft information, check out Mocking The Draft. Prospect profiles can also be found at the National Football Post, an SB Nation partner. For more throughout the draft regarding the Eagles later tonight, follow this StoryStream.

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Mel Kiper NFL Mock Draft 2012: Michael Brockers Selected To Philadelphia Eagles

In Mel Kiper's latest 2012 NFL Mock Draft, the ESPN analyst projects that the Philadelphia Eagles will use the No. 15 pick in the 2012 NFL Draft to select Michael Brockers, a defensive end from LSU.

Kiper normally doesn't include trades in his mock drafts, but had previously slotted the Eagles to trade up and select Fletcher Cox, a defensive tackle from Mississippi State who Philadelphia reportedly covets. But if they stay at their slotted 15th pick, the Eagles could do worse than Brockers.

A great fit, Brockers helps the Eagles where they are desperate, on the interior of the defensive line. Even if they move down the board, this is a need I expect them to address.

For more on the Eagles, please be sure to check out Bleeding Green Nation and SB Nation Philly for all the latest news and updates. For more mock draft information, check out Mocking The Draft. Prospect profiles can also be found at the National Football Post, an SB Nation partner.

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NFL Mock Draft 2012: Todd McShay Projects Fletcher Cox To Eagles

In his last go-around at a mock draft before the start of the first round tonight, ESPN's Todd McShay projects that the Philadelphia Eagles will select Fletcher Cox, a defensive tackle out of Mississippi State.

Based off of the latest grumblings going around the world of mock drafts, it would seem that Philadelphia would be thrilled to get its hands on Cox, who many foresee as a top ten selection.

The Eagles have a glaring need to beef up their defense, and landing Cox would provide them with an interior run stuffing presence who could tandem with Cullen Jenkins to fortify the middle.

The draft begins Thursday night at 8:00 p.m. EST, and can be seen on ESPN or NFL Network.

For more on the Eagles, please be sure to check out Bleeding Green Nation and SB Nation Philly for all the latest news and updates. For more mock draft information, check out Mocking The Draft. Prospect profiles can also be found at the National Football Post, an SB Nation partner.

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NFL Mock Draft 2012: Eagles Get Defensive

Here's what we know about the first round of the 2012 NFL Draft: Andrew Luck and Robert Griffin III will be the first two players off the board. After that, it's a little less clear what will happen.

But, for one last look at an educated guess, here's a pair of mock drafts from SBNation.com's Ryan Van Bibber and MockingTheDraft.com.

Van Bibber sees the Eagles targeting cornerback Stephon Gilmore of South Carolina: "If Kuechly is still on the board, Philly should take him. In this trip, he is not available, but a really good cornerback is. Asante Samuel is gone. DRC may be gone after this season, his last under contract. Gilmore now looks like the second-best corner in the draft."

MTD, meanwhile, also believes the Eagles will aim for a defensive player, with Boston College linebacker Luke Kuechly as the primary target: "What's old is new again for this choice. Kuechly was long-considered the Eagles' choice until the team acquired DeMeco Ryans. But as good as Ryans should be for Philadelphia, he's only one linebacker. At the weak side, Kuechly would be a big-time upgrade over Brian Rolle or Casey Matthews. It won't be a stunner if Kuechly is gone by the time this pick happens."

For more on the Eagles, please be sure to check out Bleeding Green Nation and SB Nation Philly for all the latest news and updates. For more mock draft information, check out Mocking The Draft. Prospect profiles can also be found at the National Football Post, an SB Nation partner.

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2012 NFL Draft: TV Schedule, Start Time And More

The first round of the NFL Draft is finally here. Almost.

You've likely read through dozens of mock drafts, decided upon your favorite prospects, and speculated upon enough trade scenarios to make your head spin.

But before the event gets started, here's the skinny on what you need to know.

The Draft begins at 8:00 p.m. EST on Thursday night, with just the first round taking place that evening. The second and third rounds will continue on Friday, with the final four rounds to be held on Saturday.

You can watch the event on both ESPN and NFL Network, and rest assured each will usher out their strongest lineup of talent to break down every pick, trade and rumor.

The Eagles are slated to pick 15th, but with Andy Reid involved, never rule out a trade up scenario.

For more on the Eagles, please be sure to check out Bleeding Green Nation and SB Nation Philly for all the latest news and updates. For more mock draft information, check out Mocking The Draft. Prospect profiles can also be found at the National Football Post, an SB Nation partner.

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Our Final Prediction On Who The Eagles Will Draft Tonight

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Mel Kiper Final Mock Draft 2012: Fletcher Cox Selected For Philadelphia Eagles After Trade

In Mel Kiper's final 2012 NFL Mock Draft, the ESPN analyst projects that the Philadelphia Eagles will trade up to the No. 7 pick in the 2012 NFL Draft to select Fletcher Cox, a defensive tackle from Mississippi State.

The Eagles have long been rumored to covet Cox, a 6-foot-4, 290-pounder. Kiper, who doesn't normally include trades in his mock drafts, writes that a deal would make sense.

There you go. I broke one of my own rules. Ah, but let's have some fun. In this scenario, the Eagles move up to get a defensive tackle they covet, and Jacksonville gets to move down because they can't maximize value for a top need here. Cox has a chance to become a Pro Bowl player regardless of where you line him up inside. The Eagles simply have to become stronger against the run, and up the middle in general, and Cox provides an impact.

For more on the Eagles, please be sure to check out Bleeding Green Nation and SB Nation Philly for all the latest news and updates. For more mock draft information, check out Mocking The Draft. Prospect profiles can also be found at the National Football Post, an SB Nation partner.

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2012 NFL Mock Draft: The Philadelphia Eagles Seven Round Selections

By Thursday evening, all the mock drafts in the world will once again become irrelevant because the real one will be upon us.

However, it's still only Wednesday. So hold onto your hats as Chad Reuter of NFL.com gives us a you-better-buckle-up seven round mock draft to chew on.

Without further delay, the Philadelphia Eagles picks:

1st Round: Dontari Poe - DT - Memphis

2nd Round: Lavonte David - OLB - Nebraska

3rd Round: Zerbie Sanders - OT - Florida State

4th Round: Russell Wilson - QB - Wisconsin

5th Round: Terrance Ganaway - RB - Baylor

6th Round: Aaron Henry - FS - Wisconsin

6th Round: Emil Igwenagu - TE - UMASS

6th Round: Junior Hemingway - WR - Michigan

7th Round: No Pick

This would definitely be an interesting draft with a lot to discuss after it was all set and done.

Poe is a selection that would have tons of people happy and just as many furious. He's the classic combine dazzler who didn't do very much in his college career.

Sanders would be a tremendous pick in the third round that meshes with both value and need. Wilson is projected by most to go a little later, but quarterbacks always slide up the draft boards and he has nice potential.

For more on the Eagles, please be sure to check out our blog Bleeding Green Nation and SB Nation Philly for all the latest news and updates.

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NFL Mock Draft 2012: Devon Still Selected In 1st Round By New England Patriots

The 2012 NFL Draft is just a few days away. One of the top defensive tackles in this year's deep talent pool is former Penn St. Nittany Lions player Devon Still.

In the latest mock draft over at Draft Tek, the analysts predict that Still will be selected in the first round. Draft Tek has him going to the New England Patriots as the No. 27 overall pick. Here is their take:

The Pats defense has been talked about for the past 2 seasons but not for good reasons. The unit is usually singled out for the teams' shortcomings. While the secondary seems to be the major problem, a lack of talent along the DL has also been an issue. Wilfork is a stud but the rotation next to him has been below average. Plus 6 DTs currently on the roster are set to leave after the 2012 season. Still is a disruptive force thanks to his quick first step and would be a nice companion for Vince.

By as soon as Thursday, we could find out is this prediction will come true.

For all news and information regarding the Penn State Nittany Lions, please visit Black Shoe Diaries. For updates and perspective on the New England Patriots, head on over to Pats Pulpit. For lots more on the 2012 NFL Draft, stay tuned to Mocking the Draft.

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2012 NFL Mock Draft: Philadelphia Eagles Are Linked To Michael Brockers

In the latest edition of SB Nation's NFL Mock Draft by Ryan Van Bibber, the Philadelphia Eagles are slated to take defensive tackle Michael Brockers of LSU with the 15th overall pick.

Brockers has been flying up draft boards recently and would certainly make a nice pick for Andy Reid and the boys.

The Eagles could use some help on the interior of their defensive line. The defense struggled to get push up the middle last year and had a hard time containing elite running attacks. With Brockers in the fold it will be easier to improve on both of those issues.

It'll be interesting to see how the board falls Thursday night. Philadelphia is smack dab in the middle of the round and could possibly move up or down depending on the circumstances. If Fletcher Cox is somehow still there, he could be the selection also.

The draft is loaded with defensive line prospects this year, so the Eagles will undoubtedly have their pick of the litter if they so choose.

For more on the Eagles, please be sure to check out Bleeding Green Nation and SB Nation Philly for all the latest news and updates.

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2012 NFL Mock Draft: Eagles Select Jarius Wright In Third Round

The great Wes Bunting and company are in the middle of conducting a week long NFL mock draft at the National Football Post. See who they have going to the Philadelphia Eagles in the third and fourth rounds.

Third Round

88. Philadelphia Eagles (through Houston): Jarius Wright WR, Arkansas

A coordinated athlete who is sharp as a route runner, tough over the middle and knows how to get open vs. man and zone. Will get re-routed vs. press at times and looks more like an inside player at the next level, but has the skill set to make a roster and carve out a big niche early.

The Eagles do not own a fourth round pick this season, because they traded it to the Houston Texans, in exchange for DeMeco Ryans.

For more on the Eagles offseason, check back to this SB Nation Philly StoryStream. For more Eagles news and updates, be sure to check out Bleeding Green Nation.

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2012 NFL Mock Draft: Philadelphia Eagles Select Quinton Coples, DE, North Carolina

In Sports Illustrated's latest 2012 NFL Mock Draft, Peter King projects the Philadelphia Eagles to select Quinton Coples, a defensive end from North Carolina.

One coach used these words to me about Coples: "Gifted. Sporadic." We're getting to the part of the draft -- mid first round -- where beauty's in the eye of the beholder, and teams reach for pass rushers who often don't pan out. Philly D-line coach Jim Washburn is as demanding as they come, and Coples will have a chance to make the Eagles more formidable up front.

The National Football Post describes Coples as a physical specimen, "pretty much how you want to draw up the ideal defensive end prospect." While noting that Coples is "still putting things together" as a pass rusher, the National Football Post believes Coples "can be as good as he wants to be in the NFL."

For more on the Eagles offseason, check back to this SB Nation Philly StoryStream. For more Eagles news and updates, be sure to check out Bleeding Green Nation.

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NFL Draft 2012, Devon Still: Former Penn State DT In First Round Conversation

With just a week before the start of the 2012 NFL draft, mock drafts are all the rage. (Although they sort of are throughout the entire year, too).

Former Penn State defensive tackle Devon Still figures to hear his name called early on in the proceedings, at least according to Wes Bunting's latest projection over at National Football Post, where he has Still headed to the new land of Peyton at pick 25.

Bunting on Still-to-Denver:

He's not the most dynamic of pass rushers. However, he's a big, strong kid with a good get off, long set of arms and knows how to play the run. He's a potential anchor inside who can push the pocket and give the Broncos a guy they can win with inside.

Based off of Bunting's take and other credible sources around the mock draft world, Still should end up somewhere in the range of the late first or early second round.

Regardless of when his name is called, Still will enjoy the unique opportunity of greeting Commissioner Roger Goodell, as he is one of 26 confirmed attendees of the draft.

Check out Mocking The Draft's Prospect Rankings. For more analysis and discussion of the Eagles prospect visits, check out Bleeding Green Nation's prospect page.

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2012 NFL Mock Draft: Philadelphia Eagles Select Fletcher Cox, DT, Mississippi State

In Wes Bunting's latest 2012 NFL Mock Draft, the National Football Post's NFL analyst projects that the Philadelphia Eagles will use the No. 15 pick to select Fletcher Cox, a defensive tackle from Mississippi State.

Cox is the kind of potential three-technique who can create behind the line of scrimmage and stop plays before they start. The Eagles don't have a huge need at DT, but Cox could still mature into a playmaker inside, at a position where Philly lacks an impact guy.

The Eagles are reportedly looking to trade up to assure themselves the opportunity to grab Cox, so they would likely be thrilled to have him fall all the way to the 15th pick.

Cox, a 6-4, 295-pounder, notched 56 tackles and five tackles as a junior before foregoing his final season of eligibility.

For more on the Eagles offseason, check back to this SB Nation Philly StoryStream. For more Eagles news and updates, be sure to check out Bleeding Green Nation.

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2012 NFL Mock Draft: Eagles Could Add A Suprise Offensive Weapon

The 5th annual SBNation wide writer's mock draft is still going strong over at our NFL Draft site, Mocking The Draft, but the Eagles part of it is done. The general idea in this two round mock is that the league blogger from each of our 32 NFL blogs acts as the general manager for his or her respective team. As the Eagles drafter, I had three picks. Below are my three picks with links to the stories so you can check out my reasoning, our draft guy Dan Kadar's reaction and to vote on a grade.

Round 1, Pick #15 - Luke Kuechly, LB, Boston College. Story link.

Round 2, Pick #46 - Trumaine Johnson, CB, Montana. Story link.

Round 2, Pick #51 - LaMichael James, RB, Oregon. Story link.

Definitely check out my full explanations, but overall I'd say my first pick is mostly wishful thinking, picks #2 is more practical and something I think could actually happen, while pick #3 is a bit of a wildcard (but not all that farfetched if you read why).

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2012 NFL Draft News: Philadelphia Eagles Want To Trade Up For Fletcher Cox, According To Report

The Philadelphia Eagles have spent a lot of time acquiring information about former Texas A & M quarterback Ryan Tannehill, and they are reportedly interested in moving up in the draft. But the two pieces of information are not related, according to Tony Pauline of SI.com and Draft Insider.

Pauline reports that the Eagles would be looking to draft former Mississippi State defensive tackle Fletcher Cox if move up into the top 10 selections of the 2012 NFL Draft.

There's been a buzz building around the Philadelphia Eagles potentially trading up for Ryan Tannehill. Several sources have told us if the Eagles trade into the top ten it will be for defensive lineman Fletcher Cox, not Tannehill. Cox would be perfect for the Eagles wide nine/nine technique.

Cox, a 6-4, 295-pounder, notched 56 tackles and five tackles as a junior before foregoing his final season of eligibility.

For more on the Eagles offseason, check back to this SB Nation Philly StoryStream. For more Eagles news and updates, be sure to check out Bleeding Green Nation.

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2012 NFL Mock Draft: Philadelphia Eagles Linked To Luke Kuechly

In the latest edition of SB Nation's NFL Mock Draft, Ryan Van Bibber has the Philadelphia Eagles selecting linebacker Luke Kuechly of Boston College with the 15th overall pick.

Kuechly would be a fine edition to Andy Reid's squad. By all accounts Kuechly is one of the hardest working and smartest players in the draft.

While DeMeco Ryans was brought in to fill the middle linebacker spot, he's not a sure thing with his production not being what it once was over the past few years.

Kuechly holds the all-time ACC record for tackles, doing so in just three seasons. He also led the nation in tackles in each of the last two campaigns including a whopping 191 in 2011.

Many feel that Kuechly won't get past the Kansas City Chiefs who hold the 11th selection in the first round, but if he does this would be a great marriage of need and value for Philadelphia.

For more on the Eagles, be sure to check out Bleeding Green Nation and SB Nation Philly for all the latest news and updates.

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NFL Draft 2012, Devon Still: Casserly Has Defensive Lineman Falling To Cowboys In Second Round

Charley Casserly of NFL.com recently published a two round mock for the 2012 NFL Draft. In it, he has Penn State Nittany Lions defensive lineman, Devon Still, falling to the Dallas Cowboys in the second round.

Youth is needed on Dallas' defensive line.

Still is generally seen as a first round prospect. Walter Football has him going to the Patriots in the first round, claiming he "could still go as high as 15".

Here's one of many front-seven upgrades the Patriots will need to make. With Albert Haynesworth gone, they need to address the front line. Devon Still could go as high as No. 15, so the Patriots are getting great value with this selection.

Whichever way it plays out, someone is going to be wrong on Still. He'll either be a steal in the second, or a reach in the first.

Check out Mocking The Draft's Prospect Rankings. For more analysis and discussion of the Eagles prospect visits, check out Bleeding Green Nation's prospect page.

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2012 NFL Draft Rumor: Philadelphia Eagles Could Trade Up To #4

Mary Kay Cabot of the Cleveland Plain Dealer is reporting that the Eagles could have interest in trading with the Cleveland Browns to move up to the #4 pick in this month’s draft.

Cabot says that the Eagles, the St Louis Rams and at least two other teams could be in the mix for the #4 pick and that Browns are "likely" to trade. The Eagles would be well positioned for a move up as they’ve got four picks in the top 88, including a pair of second rounders.

The Eagles have the ammunition to make a move up, but do they have a target? A move from #15 to #4 is significant and would only be something a team does if they are absolutely in love with one of the elite players in the draft. And even then, the guy would have to be at a position of real value.

Like say… Quarterback? Namely, Ryan Tannehill? It’s been widely reported that the Eagles have held a private workout in Texas with Tannehill and have at least done their due diligence on him. If they came to the decision that he’s a franchise level QB, then it makes some sense why they’d do whatever it takes to get him. Michael Vick is signed for several more years, but the Eagles commitment to him, in terms of guaranteed money, is all but up after this season.

Still, it would be a pretty dramatic message to send to Vick and the rest of the team if the Eagles moved up to #4 for a QB. It all but guarantees that Tannehill would be the starter in 2013 and that 2012 would be Vick’s final year in Philadelphia. Is that the move a team wanting to win now would make?

Of course, there’s a chance the Eagles are looking into the price of the #4 pick in case an elite prospect like Matt Kalil falls to #4. It could also be that this story is a complete and total fabrication put out by the Browns to intensify negotiations with teams that actually might want to trade up to #4 for Tannehill.

Either way, when the Browns go on the clock this year, it’s going to be a pretty tense few minutes.

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2012 NFL Draft: Eagles Host Dontari Poe, Michael Floyd & Janoris Jenkins

The NFL draft is mere weeks away and the Eagles are hosting a stream of prospects at the NovaCare center including a number of pretty big names. Some of the recent and future visitors include Notre Dame WR Michael Floyd, Northern Alabama CB Janoris Jenkins, and Memphis DT Dontari Poe

Janoris Jenkins will reportedly be in Philadelphia on Monday for a pre-draft visit. Jenkins spent his senior season at Northern Alabama after being kicked off the Florida Gators prior to the season following two arrests for marijuana possession. Prior to his dismissal from Florida, he was regarded as one of the better CBs in the country and many scouts felt he would have been a first round pick if he had come out in his Junior year.

Jenkins says that playing at tiny Northern Alabama after being on ESPN every week at Florida was a humbling experience and he's set out this offseason to prove to teams that he's learned from his mistakes.

"I made some mistakes," Jenkins tells USA TODAY Sports. "I just want to show everybody that who I am on the field is who I am, and nobody can take it from me."

"Judge me not for what I have done," he says, "but for what I have become."

There's no denying Jenkins' talent. He's as good as any corner in this draft, but the character issues are a big red flag. He very may have been humbled by his year in Northern Alabama, but the worry is that if you pay him a bunch of money and bring him into an NFL lifestyle, he'll go back to being the kind of guy who assaulted someone in a bar, got arrested twice for pot possession and fathered four kids with three different women already.

Then again, that hasn't stopped Antonio Cromartie from becoming a pretty good NFL corner.

DT Dontari Poe, one of the stars of the NFL combine, visited the Eagles facility last week according Jeff McLane. Poe essentially dominated the combine and blew scouts away with how athletic the 6-4, 346 pounder is. He ran a sub 5 second 40 and did 8 more bench press reps than any other player in Indy.

The issue is that his production didn't exactly meet his combine numbers as he had just one sack and 20 tackles last year. Here's what NFL.com has to say about him.

Poe is a big man who will likely improve a 3-4 defense working as their anchor inside at NT. His best attribute is his ability to occupy space inside and allow those on the second level to flow and make plays. He isn’t just a big man to hold two blockers, however, as he can use his strength to overpower most blockers at the collegiate level and also use his athletic ability to be a threat in the passing game and make plays around the ball. Poe has the build and athleticism to be picked late in the first round or near the top of the second.

He's not likely to be a flashy player at the NFL level, but a big strong space eater in the middle of the defense certainly would be valuable. The question is whether Poe is valuable enough to grab at #15?

Finally, the Eagles have also held a private workout with Notre Dame WR Malcolm Floyd, according to a report from Scout.com. Floyd is considered by some to be the 2nd best WR in this class and looking at his physical gifts, it's not hard to see why. At 6-3, 220 pounds he's got prototypical size. Some scouts decried his lack of top end speed in college, but he did manage a 4.47 40 at the combine.

Here's what NFL.com had to say about him.

Floyd has been a game changer at the collegiate level and possesses the size, aggressiveness and game experience to make a difference early in his transition to the NFL. Floyd has been an extremely productive threat both deep and in possession for the Irish throughout his career, as well as a physical blocker and a reliable third-down playmaker. His on-field maturity, physical nature and ability to make the big catch will outshine some off-field mishaps, as Floyd projects to be one of the top receivers off the board.

As is the case with a few of these guys that have worked out with the Eagles recently, he does have some character issues having been arrested for DUI last March. Still, most scouts have come away impressed after speaking with him and he's drawn praise for his on-field demeanor.

Related: See news about all the rumored prospect visits the Eagles will host this season.

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2012 NFL Mock Draft: Eagles Projected To Select Luke Kuechly In SB Nation Mock Draft

The Philadelphia Eagles are projected by the 2012 SB Nation NFL Mock Draft to select Boston College linebacker Luke Kuechly with the 15th pick (via SB Nation).

Based on other mock drafts we've seen, the Eagles would be lucky to even have a shot at Kuechly with the 15th selection as he has been often taken by the 13th pick.

Here's what our Eagles blog Bleeding Green Nation said about their selection of Kuechly:

Now that the Eagles have traded for DeMeco Ryans, every mock drafter on the planet has seemingly checked linebacker off the list for the Eagles and moved on. Not me. If you watched the Eagles at all last season, you'd know their problems at LB were more than just the man in the middle. In reality, the Eagles could probably use an upgrade at all three spots. So for me, Ryans is just the start of the overhaul. The chance to add a guy like Kuechly here is just too good to pass up and in the course of one offseason could turn this teams' biggest weakness into one of its most talented units.

While Kuechly is most often projected at middle linebacker, he really played all over the place at BC, so I see no reason why he couldn't slide over to SAM with Ryans next to him at MIKE.

Guy who I also considered: Michael Brockers. Guy who I wished fell: Fletcher Cox. Guys other people mock to the Eagles but aren't worth the 15th pick: Devon Still, Mark Barron.

For more analysis and discussion of the Eagles prospect visits, check out Bleeding Green Nation's prospect page.

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2012 NFL Mock Draft: Todd McShay Examines Eagles Options

The Philadelphia Eagles will pick 15th in the upcoming NFL draft, and many believe that it's time for the team to look defensive.

ESPN's Todd McShay, who recently released his latest mock draft, doesn't disagree, but offers up a handful of scenarios the team will have to consider when the draft commences in two weeks:

- He projects that Alabama safety Mark Barron - the top rated player at his position - will be the pick for Philadelphia, although he suggests that the Eagles would be thrilled if Iowa offensive tackle Riley Reiff were to fall this far. The Eagles recently signed Demetress Bell to replace the injured-Jason Peters, but may still look to add line depth through the draft.

- McShay believes the Eagles may look for a defensive tackle, although his top two interior defensive line prospects - Dontari Poe of Memphis and Fletcher Cox of Mississippi State - are already off the board in his mock, opening up the possibility of Philly trading back to acquire multiple picks and a next-tier player like Jerel Worthy from Michigan State.

- Finally, should Boston College linebacker Luke Kuechly somehow slip this far, McShay says he "might be too good to pass" up, despite the fact that the Eagles recently traded for DeMeco Ryans.

For more analysis and discussion of the Eagles prospect visits, check out Bleeding Green Nation's prospect page.

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2012 NFL Mock Draft: Philadelphia Eagles Select Dontari Poe, DT, Memphis

Despite acquiring DeMeco Ryans in the offseason, the Philadelphia Eagles might not be done developing their front seven.

In his latest 2012 NFL mock draft, Sports Illustrated's Don Banks projects that the Eagles will use the No. 15 pick in the 2012 NFL Draft to select Dontari Poe, a defensive tackle from Memphis.

Poe finds his NFL home, and it's not surprising to see Andy Reid taking the athletically gifted big man from Memphis. The Eagles need more strength up the middle of their defense, and the hope is that newly acquired linebacker DeMeco Ryans was just the beginning of that upgrade.

Poe, 6-foot-5, 350-pounder, is described by the National Football Post as a physical behemoth with the potential to develop into one of the league's better interior lineman. But his game also needs refinement, prompting concerns that he's more likely to be a flop than many other top prospects.

For more analysis and discussion of the Eagles prospect visits, check out Bleeding Green Nation's prospect page.

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2012 NFL Mock Draft: Is Ryan Tannehill A Possiblity For The Eagles?

In all likelihood, the Eagles aren’t going to draft Ryan Tannehill because he’s not going to be available when they pick at #15. It’s looking like a near guarantee at this point that a team like the Dolphins or Browns will snap him up in the top ten.

But what if he does fall? That’s the scenario posited by Ryan Van Bibber of SBNation.com. He thinks that if Tannehill drops, the Eagles would grab him.

Andy Reid and the Eagles have spent plenty of time with Tannehill this spring. They need a quarterback learning the pro game and ready to fill the void as injuries take their toll on Michael Vick, who turns 32 this season.

While it is certainly true that the Eagles have done their due diligence on Tannehill, having sent their QB coach Doug Pederson to have a workout with him in Texas, the pick really doesn’t make a lot of sense for them.

For one, the Eagles have always been a team focused on value in the draft. They routinely move up and down in all rounds in an attempt to stockpile picks if they don’t see value or move up for a player they think has greater value than where’s fallen to.

The problem with Tannehill is that most mock drafters haven’t had him as a top 10 pick because they think he’s a top ten talent… They’ve done so because the desperation for QBs in the league has rendered value unimportant. This is why Christian Ponder and Jake Locker were top 12 picks last year. The most important thing now is getting your starting QB, not picking him where he probably belongs. Tannehill is most commonly seen as a late first/second round talent, so are the Eagles desperate enough at QB to reach on him at #15? That just doesn’t seem likely.

Plus, they’d have to be cognizant of the message they’d be sending. The message to Michael Vick is that he’s finished here almost no matter what he does next season. You simply don’t draft a QB in the top 15 to have him sit for years or to flip him for another pick. If they picked Tannehill, they’d be committing themselves to starting him in the very near future.

Given Tannehill’s middling record at Texas A&M and his lack of experience as a starter, it would not appear to be smart at all to take him at #15 this season. This is a guy who only started 19 games at QB and played WR when he first came to college. There’s just no reason to be that desperate.

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2012 NFL Mock Draft: Eagles Trade Up To Grab Matt Kalil In Mocking The Draft's Latest

As the 2012 NFL draft approaches, mock drafts are beginning to come out of the woodwork. According to SB Nation's mock draft site, Mocking the Draft, the Philadelphia Eagles do something that we haven't seen them do in earlier mocks -- trade up to grab an offensive lineman.

According to MTD's latest prediction, the Eagles will move up from No. 15 to No. 5 to select USC offensive tackle Matt Kalil.

Matt Kalil | Offensive tackle | Southern California: Never under-estimate a desperate team in the draft, and right now the Eagles could be categorized as just that. Losing left tackle Jason Peter is crippling, and this season is likely make-or-break for Andy Reid. To get Kalil, the Eagles surrender their first and second round picks this year, a fifth rounder this year, and a second rounder next year.

Kalil is this draft class' best offensive lineman and with the loss of Jason Peters, the Eagles will need a new left tackle. Kalil could step in and start from day one as Michael Vick's left-side protector.

For more on the Eagles head to Bleeding Green Nation, and for more mock drafts, follow SB Nation Philly's StoryStream.

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NFL Draft 2012: Dontari Poe Visiting Eagles Facility, According To Report

Dontari Poe, who wowed executives and coaches with his dominance of the NFL combine, is visiting the Philadelphia Eagles facility on Thursday, according to a report.

Poe played collegiately at Memphis, and although his production in 2011 was disappointing (just 20 tackles and 1.0 sack), the nose tackle has flown up draft boards after flashing abundant athleticism and power at the combine.

The Eagles, who pick at number 15 in the upcoming draft, have a major need to upgrade their interior defensive line, and the interest is Poe is understandable. The trickier part of the equation is that he won't likely be available by the time Philadelphia selects, as a number of teams - including the Panthers and Chiefs - would seem to be interested in his services as well.

Each NFL team is allowed to host 30 prospects leading up the draft.

For more analysis and discussion of the Eagles prospect visits, check out Bleeding Green Nation's prospect page.

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2012 NFL Mock Draft: Mel Kiper Projects Eagles To Select Fletcher Cox, Zach Brown In First Two Rounds

In the latest Mel Kiper Jr. 2012 NFL Mock Draft, the ESPN NFL draft analyst went two rounds. Kiper saw the Philadelphia Eagles addressing needs on the defensive side of the ball in the first two rounds of the draft.

In the First Round, Kiper has the Eagles taking Mississippi State defensive tackle Fletcher Cox with the 15th pick.

Here's what Kiper had to say about the selection:

Disruptive and explosive from the interior, Cox is another player you can take without worries about a scheme fit. He has a chance to become a Pro Bowl player regardless of where you line him up inside. The Eagles simply have to become stronger against the run, and up the middle in general, and Cox should provide early dividends. (via ESPN)

In the Second Round, Kiper sees Philadelphia using the 46th pick to select Zach Brown, a linebacker out of North Carolina. Linebacker is a position Kiper feels is a great need for the Eagles.

For more analysis and discussion of the Eagles prospect visits, check out Bleeding Green Nation's prospect page.

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2012 NFL Mock Draft: Philadelphia Eagles Select Fletcher Cox, DT, Mississippi State

In Sports Illustrated's latest 2012 NFL Mock Draft, Don Banks projects the Philadelphia Eagles will use the 15th pick in the 2012 NFL Draft to select Fletcher Cox, a defensive tackle from Mississippi State.

The Eagles are another team that could take Barron, but I'm sticking with Cox because of how much value there is in having a deep defensive line rotation in the NFC East (see Giants, New York). I've moved Cox ahead of LSU's Michael Brockers on the consensus opinion that he's more NFL-ready in 2012.

Philadelphia addressed one of its weaknesses on Wednesday by signing left tackle Demetress Bell, so the Eagles will be able to address other issues in the draft. In an NFC East that will likely feature starting quarterbacks Eli Manning, Tony Romo and Robert Griffin III during the upcoming season, defensive line play will be a must.

For more analysis and discussion of the Eagles prospect visits, check out Bleeding Green Nation's prospect page.

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2012 NFL Mock Draft: Philadelphia Eagles Select Mark Barron, S, Alabama

In SB Nation's latest 2012 NFL Mock Draft, Ryan Van Bibber projects that the Philadelphia Eagles will use the 15th pick in the 2012 NFL Draft to select Mark Barron, a safety from Alabama.

15. Philadelphia Eagles, Mark Barron, S, Alabama

The Eagles do have last year's second-round pick, Jaiquawan Jarrett, but early returns were not good last year. Barron is a blue chip talent. He can step in and play at a high level right away, giving the Eagles an instant upgrade that fixes a real problem spot from last year.

Barron, a 6-foot-2, 218-pounder, missed the NFL combine after surgery to repair a double hernia, but recovered in time to compete in Alabama's pro day on March 7. National Football Post ranks Barron No. 15 on its NFL Draft Big Board and No. 1 among strong safeties.

For more analysis and discussion of the Eagles prospect visits, check out Bleeding Green Nation's prospect page.

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Philadelphia Eagles Interested in QB Prospect Ryan Tannehill

The Eagles are interested in QB Ryan Tannehill. What is there to like about him? Does he make sense for the Eagles? Should they be interested?

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2012 NFL Mock Draft: Philadelphia Eagles Select Fletcher Cox, DT, Mississippi State

In Mocking The Draft's latest 2012 NFL Mock Draft, Brad Wells projects that the Philadelphia Eagles will use the 15th pick in the 2012 NFL Draft to select Fletcher Cox, a defensive tackle from Mississippi State.

Wells says that Cox, a 6-foot-4, 295-pounder, fits into Andy Reid's vision.

Fletcher Cox | Defensive tackle | Mississippi State: Eagles coach and personnel overlord Andy Reid loves to stock up on two things: Project quarterbacks (that he can later pawn off to dumb buyers) and defensive tackles. Cox is light-footed and quick, which is perfect for d-line coach Jim Washburn.

The National Football Post would consider Cox a bit of a stretch at the 15th selection, rating him the 27th-best prospect on their NFL Draft Big Board. The Post describes Cox as a player with a quick first step whose technique still needs more polish.

For more analysis and discussion of the Eagles prospect visits, check out Bleeding Green Nation's prospect page.

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Philadelphia Eagles NFL Draft Prospect Visits: QB Kirk Cousins Scheduled, According To Report

The Philadelphia Eagles will host former Michigan State quarterback Kirk Cousins sometime next week, according to Fox Sport's Alex Marvez.

Cousins has been rising up draft boards of late, as teams have warmed up to the former Spartan, and some are projecting him to be picked before the end of round two.

While Michael Vick is firmly entrenched as the Eagles' number one quarterback, head coach Andy Reid has a track record of stockpiling quarterbacks and grooming them into starters. Whether or not the team invests in a quarterback in the opening rounds of the draft, it seems likely that Vince Young will not be back as the backup.

That would open the door for Mike Kafka, a promising youngster who Reid seems to have faith in.

Cousins finished his college career with over 9,000 yards passing and 66 touchdowns.

For more analysis and discussion of the Eagles prospect visits, check out Bleeding Green Nation's prospect page.

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Todd McShay 2012 NFL Mock Draft: Three QBs In The Top Ten?

ESPN's Todd McShay released his latest NFL mock draft this week and he's got a few surprises in his top ten. The top two picks are certainly no surprise as he's got Andrew Luck and Robert Griffin III coming off the board #1 & #2 respectively. He's got OT Matt Kalil heading to the Vikings at #3, also a pretty consensus pick.

This is where things start to get a little interesting. He's got WR Justin Blackmon the Browns at #4, RB Trent Richardson to the Buccaneers at #5 and CB Morris Claiborne to the Rams at #5. This would be a little bit of a kick in the pants for the Rams who would see the likely top 3 guys on their board all come off directly before them.

The rest of the top ten include a surprise with OT Riley Reiff to the Jags, the Dolphins getting their QB with Ryan Tannehill at #8, workout warrior Dontari Poe at #9 to the Panthers and WR Michael Floyd at #10 to Buffalo.

Related: Tommy Lawlor's 7 round Eagles mock draft.

As for the Eagles, he's got a name we haven't really seen yet.

Mark Barron, S, Alabama

The Eagles began addressing their linebacker need by trading for DeMeco Ryans, so Barron makes sense in the back end. He is the most complete safety in the draft, offering a physical presence in run support and the range to play the point in coverage.

This is a weak safety class in 2012 and the fact that some people are talking about Barron as a first round pick should be evidence of that. He's not a bad player by any means, but being the best of a bad class doesn't mean he's worth taking this high. Barron's value probably lies more into the second round.

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2012 NFL Draft Order: Philadelphia Eagles Have 9 Picks

The NFL has released its full 2012 NFL draft order today, which they've updated to fully reflect all the recent trades and compensatory picks. As always, the Eagles have done a lot of wheeling and dealing over the past year and loaded themselves up with more picks than there are rounds. However, unlike previous seasons, the Eagles picks are actually stocked near the top of the draft.

They've got three picks in the top 51 and four in the top 100, so the team will be able to add several higher pedigreed prospects or could use those picks to package together for a move up to grab one of the truly elite players in this draft.

Related: Who might the Eagles draft? Check out our collection of mock drafts.

Howie Roseman and Andy Reid will also have plenty of later round picks to play with as well with three selections in the 6th round. So, barring trades, this is what the Eagles will have to work with on draft day.

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2012 NFL Mock Draft: Philadelphia Eagles Go Local And Select Devon Still

In the latest SB Nation NFL Mock Draft, Ryan Van Bibber has the Philadelphia Eagles picking defensive tackle Devon Still out of Penn State in the first round.

Still is a very intriguing prospect who lately has been mocked anywhere from the mid-first to the second round. He's a big-bodied tackle who could eat up some serious space on the interior of the line between Trent Cole and Jason Babin.

The Eagles defense at times struggled to stop the run, something Still excelled at in college for the Nittany Lions. With DeMeco Ryans now on the team after last week's trade with the Houston Texans, inside linebacker all of a sudden becomes considerably less of a need.

Luke Kuechly has been the popular pick for weeks if he gets to the 15th spot, but maybe now Andy Reid and co. go in a different direction. Philadelphia doesn't have a truly pressing need anywhere on the team like many others drafting this high, so it will be intriguing to see which way they go.

Regardless, Still would be a fine selection to help shore up the defensive line and provide a good rotation with Cullen Jenkins and Mike Patterson.

For more Eagles coverage, be sure to check out out blog Bleeding Green Nation and SB Nation Philly for all the latest news and updates.

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2012 NFL Mock Draft: SI's Don Banks Predicts Philadelphia Eagles Will Select Fletcher Cox

Trading for long-time Houston Texans middle linebacker DeMeco Ryans didn't just shore up the Philadelphia Eagles' defense. It also freed the Eagles to use their first-round pick in the 2012 NFL Draft on the best player available, rather than using the selection to desperately seek a linebacker.

In Don Banks' latest 2012 NFL Mock Draft, the Sports Illustrated NFL analyst predicts that the Eagles will use the No. 15 pick on Fletcher Cox, a 6-foot-4, 295-pound defensive tackle from Mississippi State.

The DeMeco Ryans trade means the Eagles have their 2012 starting middle linebacker already on their roster. That frees up Philly to look at several positions in the first round, defensive tackle, offensive tackle and safety among them. Cox is the draft's third-rated DT, and while the position isn't an urgent need, you know how Andy Reid loves his big guys up front.

For more updates on the Eagles, check out Bleeding Green Nation and for more updates on the upcoming draft, head to Mocking the Draft.

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Mel Kiper 2012 NFL Mock Draft Version 3.0: Philadelphia Eagles Linked To Michael Brockers

In his latest 2012 NFL Mock Draft, Mel Kiper has the Philadelphia Eagles selecting Michael Brockers, a defensive tackle from LSU.

No team was softer up the middle than Philly in 2011, and in Brockers the Eagles get a big, active player who can both take up blocks and penetrate. He weighed in at 322 pounds at the NFL combine, heavier than I've ever had him listed, but I don't see him as a prototype 3-4 nose tackle. My guess is he'll play a little lighter once he gets into camp, and the Eagles will benefit, particularly against the run. This is like a baseball team -- they need to build out the middle of the field on defense. If Kuechly is here, that makes sense as well.

Brockers had a disappointing showing at the NFL Combine, but still projects as a first rounder due to his stellar 2011 season at LSU. The 6-foot-5, 322-pounder had 54 tackles, 10 for loss, two sacks and an interception. He was also particularly dominant during a regular season meeting with Alabama.

The Eagles have a need at linebacker and have often been projected to draft Luke Kuechly. But Kuechly tested well at the NFL Combine and could be off the board by the time Philadelphia chooses.

For more updates on the Eagles, check out Bleeding Green Nation and for more updates on the upcoming draft, head to Mocking the Draft.

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2012 NFL Mock Draft: Philadelphia Eagles Linked To Luke Kuechly

Last year, the undoing of Philadelphia's season was turnovers and a lack of defense. They can only address one of those issues of course in the draft, and that's what Peter Schrager has them doing in his latest mock draft.

Luke Kuechly is Schrager's pick for the Eagles at the 15th spot. A talented inside linebacker out of Boston College, Kuechly was a tackling machine last year. He registered an unbelievable 191 tackles last season, and had a combined 532 in college.

Many wondered about Kuechly's speed and size but those questions were put to rest with an excellent combine showing. Kuechly ran 4.5 and 4.59 40-yard dash times, very nice numbers for a man of his build.

After Vontaze Burfict looked out of shape and very underwhelming in Indianapolis, it's a very safe bet to assume Kuechly will be the first inside backer taken in the draft. The Boston College man is expected to step in right away and be a difference maker, a huge plus for a team that thinks it's ready to win right now.

For more on the Eagles, be sure to check out Bleeding Green Nation and SB Nation Philly.

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NFL Combine Winners And Losers 2012

The NFL has wrapped its up its combine in Indianapolis and now pundits are furiously debating the winners and losers from the week. There's some pretty good consensus on several winners and losers, but some guys have shown up on both lists.

First the winners.

Robert Griffin III was an unambiguous winner and not only solidified his status as the likely #2 pick, but also had more than a couple people wondering whether he might be a better prospect than Andrew Luck. That said, the real winner from RG3's workout is probably the St Louis Rams, who are now set to get a bounty of picks for their #2 overall slot.

Luke Kuechly - People were high on LK prior to the combine, but his stock was really solidified when his workout showed that he has the athleticism to back up his monster numbers. Mike Mayock said he's now a guaranteed top 20 pick.

Stephen Hill - The 6-4 WR from Georgia Tech turned a lot of heads when he ran a 4.36 40 and turned even more when he caught every pass his way in the drills. His production in college was so-so, but he played in an awful offense and made the best of his touches. He's also already a good blocker, so he could be a 2nd-3rd round target.

Dontari Poe - This guy blew away everyone at the combine. He's 6-4, 365 pounds and yet he runs a sub 4.5 40 and was did more bench reps than anyone else. There's almost no one his size with that much athleticism. That said, his college numbers don't really seem to reflect his ability.

Losers

You know him, you love him... Vontaze Burfict! I'll let CBS Sports handle the bad news.

Burflict is almost certainly the biggest loser of the entire combine. There was plenty of discussion, based on Burflict's play on the field, that he could be a first-round pick. That's laughable at this point, and it's possible that Burflict could even go undrafted. He ripped his old coaches, he ran the slowest linebacker 40 time and he didn't look like the elite talent people claim to have seen on tape.

CBS also didn't like WR Kendall Wright, who may have dropped out of the first round with his performance.

Wright came into the combine as a top-three wideout on almost every board. With Justin Blackmon not working out, Wright had a shot to potentially even leap to the top of the wideout lists, particularly if he blazed his 40. But he didn't, running a 4.61, and possibly costing himself a shot in the first round. The good news is that Wright's still gets to perform at Baylor's pro day, where he'll have a pile of scouts on hand to view RG3. But in a year with a weak wideout class, Wright really didn't take advantage of an opportunity given to him at the combine.

Finally, many draftniks were down on Ohio State OT Mike Adams.

He had some of the most underwhelming workouts of any of the highly-touted offensive linemen, bench-pressing 225 pounds 19 times and running 5.4 in the 40. There were already some red flags around the 6-foot-7, 323-pounder because he was one of five OSU players suspended for first five games of 2011 due to NCAA rule violation of receiving improper benefits. "I don't see the core strength. He's long, he's got good feet, he's got the prototypical left tackle's body," Mayock said. "I'm not buying that he's definitely going in the first round just because of his strength and some questions about his maturity."

As for the guys that no one disagrees on, Florida CB Janoris Jenkins was the subject of some debate. The Charlotte Observer found his interview refreshing and honest while also being impressed with his workout.

Jenkins was grilled about his past transgressions: two marijuana-related arrests in a four-month span that got him kicked out of Florida. But he took responsibility for his mistakes, then went out and had an outstanding combine. Jenkins ran the 40 in 4.46, and his 10-yard split was the fastest of any defensive back. Jenkins looked like the second-best corner, behind LSU's Morris Claiborne.

On the other hand, WEEI took his interviews as a big negative.

Positives? He was honest in his sitdown with the media. Negatives? The stuff he was being honest about. He copped to three arrests for possession of marijuana and a bar fight. While he had good workouts, his checkered past will likely cost him in the eyes of some teams

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2012 NFL Combine: Brandon Pierce Has Mixed Results

Brandon Pierce was looking to make a great impression at the NFL Scouting Combine on Sunday in Indianapolis. It ended with mixed results.

While Pierce did well at certain stations including the vertical and broad jumps, he struggled with his pass catching ability.

According to NFL Network analyst Mike Mayock in a Philly.com piece, his day may have hurt his stock.

"I didn't think he had a great day today, and I like him, and he's a Philly guy so I want to like him," Mayock said. "He's a big back with good feet. I think he struggled a little bit catching the ball today."

The Temple product ran a nice time of 4.49 in the 40-yard dash, which tied for seventh among running backs.

Pierce was one of the most productive players in college football last year. The standout scored 27 touchdowns to accompany 1,481 yards. More impressive, he averaged 5.4 yards per carry.

Mayock projects that Pierce will be a fourth round selection.

For more NFL draft information, be sure to check out Mocking The Draft and SBNation.com.

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2012 NFL Combine Results: Temple's Bernard Pierce Among Top RB Performers In Broad Jump, Vertical Jump

The 2012 NFL Combine results for Sunday's workouts is available for the running backs (via NFL.com).

Temple's Bernard Pierce wasn't known as a speedster in college and wasn't expected to blow anyone away with his 40-yard dash time. He did however put up a respectable 4.49 in the event. His 10-yard split time was a 1.52 which was better than LaMichael James' 1.6.

In the 225-pound bench press, Pierce did 17 reps. Pierce's vertical jump was marked at 36.5 inches. His best event was the broad jump: 123 inches. Pierce also finished the 3-cone drill in 7.07 seconds and the 20-yard shuttle drill in 4.28 seconds.

Pierce was in the top ten in the broad jump (tied for 2nd), vertical jump (tied for 5th) and 3-cone drill (9th). Pierce's grade at NFL.com ranks him as a draftable player in the 4th-7th round.

For coverage of all NFL news and notes, go to SBNation.com. For constant draft information, look no further than Mocking The Draft.

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2012 NFL Combine Results, Measurements: Quarterbacks, Running Backs, Receivers

The 2012 NFL Combine results for measurements for the quarterbacks, running backs and wide receivers are in. Here's how Penn State and Temple players stacked up:

Derek Moye, Penn State (WR): 6-4, 209 pounds, 8 1/4 inches (hand size)

Bernard Pierce, Temple (RB): 6-0, 218 pounds, 9 1/4 inches (hand size)

Despite having good NFL size overall, Moye's hands are on the smaller side compared to the rest of the wide receiver prospects at the combine.

Pierce is one of the taller running backs at the combine and his hands are around the average size.

There were no quarterbacks from Penn State or Temple at the combine. Here's how some of the notable quarterbacks stacked up:

Andrew Luck, Stanford, 6-4, 234 pounds, 10 inches (hand size)

Robert Griffin III, Baylor, 6-2 3/8, 223 pounds, 9 1/2 inches (hand size)

Ryan Tannehill, Texas A&M, 6-4, 221 pounds, 9 inches (hand size)

For coverage of all NFL news and notes, go to SBNation.com. For constant draft information, look no further than Mocking The Draft.

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2012 NFL Combine Schedule: Linebackers And Defensive Lineman Arrive Friday

The third day of the 2012 NFL Combine is scheduled Friday as groups seven, eight and nine join the six groups already in Indianapolis – the annual host of the NFL Combine. Offensive lineman, special teamers, quarterbacks, running backs, tight ends and wide receivers are already in attendance.

For the full 2012 Combine schedule, click here.

The three groups set to arrive on Friday consist only of linebackers and defensive lineman. The arriving players will participate in registration, pre-exam X-rays, orientation and interviews.

Among the high-profile prospects set to arrive on Friday are: Vontaze Burfict from Arizona State, Dont'a Hightower and Courtney Upshaw from Alabama, Luke Kuechly from Boston College, Michael Brockers of LSU, Quinton Coples of North Carolina and Melvin Ingram of South Carolina.

Along with the schedule of the arriving groups, Friday's schedule includes events for the six groups already in Indy. Groups one, two and three will partake in an NFLPA Meeting, psychological testing, a PK/ST workout and interviews. Groups four, five and six will partake in measurements, medical examinations, media sessions, psychological testing and interviews.

For more draft coverage, check out SB Nation's 2012 NFL Draft hub and Mocking The Draft, who has staff on the ground in Indy this week.

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2012 NFL Combine Results, Measurements: OL Johnnie Troutman, TE Evan Rodriguez

The 2012 NFL Combine results for the measurements of offensive linemen and tight ends are available (via Walter Football.com).

Penn State offensive lineman Johnnie Troutman was listed as 6-4, 325 pounds. His arm length was listed as 33 1/2 inches. Troutman's hands list comparably to top offensive lineman prospects such as Iowa's Riley Reiff and Ohio State's Mike Adams.

Temple tight end Evan Rodriguez was listed as 6-1, 239 pounds. His arm length was listed as 32 inches while his hands were 9 1/2 inches. Rodriguez was tied for the shortest tight end with UMass' Emil Igwenagu. Rodriguez was also the third-lightest tight end at just 239 pounds.

Boston College linebacker Luke Kuechly's results are not yet available. He is a player who has often been projected in mock drafts to be selected by the Philadelphia Eagles in this year's NFL Draft.

For coverage of all NFL news and notes, go to SBNation.com. For constant draft information, look no further than Mocking The Draft.

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2012 NFL Combine: Thursday's Schedule Of Events

Although the on-field portion of the 2012 NFL Combine is still a day away, plenty is happening out in Indianapolis on the second day of this year's event.

On Wednesday, a group of players consisting of the specialists (punter/kickers/long snappers), offensive linemen and tight ends arrived, and they'll be joined by the quarterbacks, running backs, and wide receivers today.

The Wednesday arrivers will spend the day undergoing measurements, psychological and medical examinations, and interviews with both NFL teams and the media.

Those who arrived Thursday will undergo a hospital pre-exam and X-rays, attend an orientation, and finish the day with interviews with teams.

Amongst those who arrive on Thursday is Temple running back Bernard Pierce, who left the Owls program after a decorated three-year career. He finished his junior season with 1,481 rushing yards, and is considered the fifth best running back prospect in this draft by Mocking The Draft.

For coverage of all NFL news and notes, go to SBNation.com. For constant draft information, look no further than Mocking The Draft.

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2012 NFL Combine: Luck, Griffin III Headline Thursday's Arrivals

No two players have created more draft buzz than former Stanford quarterback Andrew Luck and former Baylor quarterback Robert Griffin III, both of whom are due to arrive on Thursday for the 2012 NFL Combine.

All quarterbacks, wide receivers, and running backs are set to touch down in Indianapolis today, and they'll spend Thursday completing medical examinations and being interviewed by coaches and executives.

Derek Moye, the former Penn State receiver who finished his Nittany Lion career with 144 catches, is amongst the wide receiver invites. Moye is a projected late round pick by most draft services.

Temple running back Bernard Pierce, who entered the draft after a sensational junior season, was also invited to Indianapolis. Pierce rushed for 1,481 yards in 2011, and is the fifth best running back available according to Mocking The Draft.

For coverage of all NFL news and notes, go to SBNation.com. For constant draft information, look no further than Mocking The Draft.

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2012 NFL Combine: Day 1 Arrivals Include Matt Kalil

The 2012 NFL Combine begins Wednesday, when the first group of prospects arrives in Indianapolis.

Former USC offensive tackle Matt Kalil leads the crop of offensive linemen, tight ends, punters and kickers who touch down in Indianapolis on Wednesday in hopes of impressing NFL scouts and front office personnel. Kalil, a 6-foot-7, 295-pounder who started for two seasons as USC's offensive tackle, is projected as a top-five pick.

He and other prospects -- which include Penn State offensive lineman Johnnie Troutman and Temple tight end Evan Rodriguez -- will register at the Combine Wednesday after arriving in Indianapolis, then undergo medical examinations, orientation and interviews on Day 1.

[FULL NFL COMBINE SCHEDULE HERE]

Other positions are scheduled to arrive on different days. The schedule of arrivals follows:

Thursday: Quarterbacks, wide receivers and running backs

Friday: Defensive linemen and linebackers

Saturday: Defensive backs

For coverage of all NFL news and notes, go to SBNation.com. For constant draft information, look no further than Mocking The Draft.

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2012 NFL Scouting Combine: Wednesday's Preview And Schedule

It's that time again for the NFL schedule.

The 2012 NFL Scouting Combine is set to get underway Wednesday in Indianapolis for kickers, punters, offensive linemen and tight ends.

Full the full NFL Combine schedule, click here.

This group will come in for the first of their four days in the Hoosier State. Today will be a lot of red tape, including registrations and medical exams. Tomorrow, the players can expect to conduct interviews and take measurements for teams to analyze and dissect.

On Friday, things start to pick up with workouts to compliment more interviews and an NFLPA meeting. Finally, the group will get on the field and show their stuff on Saturday before heading home.

It's incredible to think about the amount of money made and lost on every drill. If a player runs a fast 40-yard dash or bench-presses more reps than expected, he stands to move up the board considerably. Last year it was Julio Jones who wowed the scouts and ended up being nabbed by Atlanta with the 5th overall pick.

Here's the rest of the scheduled groups:

Thursday: Quarterbacks, Wide Receivers and Running Backs

Friday: Defensive Linemen and Linebackers

Saturday: Defensive Backs

For coverage of all NFL news and notes, go to SBNation.com. For constant draft information, look no further than Mocking The Draft.

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2012 NFL Combine Records: Draft Prospects Looking To Establish Marks In Indianapolis

Seven former Penn State Nittany Lions will join hundreds of other NFL prospects at the 2012 NFL Combine, which begins on Wednesday, Feb. 22 and continues until Feb. 28.

The prospects will be auditioning for NFL scouts in a variety of on-field drills, conditioning tests and interviews. The top priority for all participants is to impress NFL decision-makers, and one way to do that is to break existing records. Thriving in the 40-yard dash, bench press, or any of the other strength and agility drills is a surefire way to climb the draft board.

A list of NFL Combine records follows, courtesy of Top End Sports.

40-Yard Dash

4.24 - Rondel Melendez, WR, Eastern Kentucky - 1999
4.24 - Chris Johnson, RB, East Carolina - 2008
4.28 - Jerome Mathis, WR, Hampton - 2005
4.28 - Champ Bailey, CB, Georgia - 1999
4.28 - DeMarcus Van Dyke, DB, Miami - 2011
4.28 - Jacoby Ford, WR, Clemson - 2010

Bench Press (Most 225-Pound Reps)

51 - Justin Ernest, DT, Eastern Kentucky - 1999
49 - Stephen Paea, DT, Oregon State - 2011
45 - Mike Kudla, DE, Ohio State - 2006
45 - Leif Larsen, DT, Texas-El Paso - 2000
45 - Mitch Petrus, G, Arkansas - 2010

Vertical Jump (In Inches)

46 - Gerald Sensabaugh, FS, North Carolina - 2005
45 1/2 - Derek Wake, OLB, Penn State - 2005
45 - Chris McKenzie, CB, Arizona State - 2005
45 - Chris Chambers, WR, Wisconsin - 2001
45 - Donald Washington, CB, Ohio St. - 2009

10-Yard Dash

1.40 - Cedric Peerman, RB, Virginia - 2009
1.40 - Chris Johnson, RB, East Carolina - 2008
1.40 - Justin King, CB, Penn State - 2008
1.41 - Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie, CB, Tennessee State - 2008

20-Yard Shuttle

3.73 - Kevin Kasper, WR, Iowa - 2001
3.76 - Deion Branch, WR, Louisville - 2002
3.78 - Dunta Robinson, CB, South Carolina - 2004
3.79 - Champ Bailey, CB, Georgia - 1999

Three-Cone Drill

6.42 - Jeff Maehl, WR, Oregon - 2011
6.44 - Buster Skrine, DB, Tennessee-Chattanooga - 2011
6.45 - Sedrick Curry, CB, Texas A&M - 2000
6.48 - Rogers Beckett, FS, Marshall - 2000

For more updates on the upcoming draft, head to Mocking the Draft.

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2012 NFL Combine: Schedule And Preview

The 2012 NFL Combine begins Wednesday, Feb. 22, when the first wave of draft prospects arrives in Indianapolis looking to impress NFL evaluators. Among the highly-touted prospects is Luke Kuechly, the linebacker from Boston College projected in many mock drafts to land with the Philadelphia Eagles.

The combine features a four-day schedule with staggered starts for each position. Kickers, punters, offensive linemen and tight ends arrive in Indianapolis on Wednesday and begin the schedule then. Quarterbacks, running backs and wide receivers are scheduled to begin on Thursday. Defensive linemen and linebackers start Friday, and cornerbacks touch down in Indianapolis on Saturday.

[FULL NFL COMBINE SCHEDULE HERE]

Each position begins Day 1 on the day of arrival in Indianapolis. The four-day schedule follows:

Day 1:

Travel to Indianapolis, registration, hospital pre-exam and X-rays, orientation, interviews

Day 2:

Measurements, medical examinations, media, psychological testing, interviews

Day 3:

NFLPA Meeting, psychological testing, interviews

Day 4:

Workout (timing, stations, skill drills), departure from Indianapolis

For more updates on the Eagles, check out Bleeding Green Nation and for more updates on the upcoming draft, head to Mocking the Draft.

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2012 NFL Mock Draft: Luke Kuechly Again Projected To Philadelphia Eagles

For Philadelphia Eagles fans, NFL Mock Drafts are starting to become a little repetitive -- 60 percent of the time, the Eagles are projected to select former Boston College linebacker Luke Kuechly every time.

Ryan Van Bibber became the latest analyst to project Kuechly to the Eagles in SB Nation's most recent 2012 NFL Mock Draft. Philadelphia will almost certainly look to upgrade its linebacking corps, and Kuechly is the safest and most established linebacker prospect in the draft.

This pick is a perfect match of need and talent for the Eagles, who really missed a strong tackler and instinctive leader as the linchpin of their defense. Kuechly provides all of that, and should upgrade Philly's defense immediately. Again, free agency could change this pick, if the Eagles opt for a more experienced veteran to fill the void.

Kuechly is a 6-foot-3, 237-pound inside linebacker who makes up for a lack of elite athleticism using instincts unmatched by anyone else who played in the NCAA in 2011. Rated the No. 19 prospect on the National Football Post's NFL Draft Big Board, Kuechly finished with 532 career tackles at Boston College, setting an ACC record.

For more updates on the Eagles, check out Bleeding Green Nation and for more updates on the upcoming draft, head to Mocking the Draft.

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2012 NFL Draft: Mike Mayock Sees Luke Kuechly As A Fit For Philadelphia Eagles

With the NFL's scouting combine is less than a week away, NFL Network draft analyst Mike Mayock held court with reporters this to week to give his thoughts on the expected participants and the strategies he sees for all 32 NFL teams.

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Mel Kiper 2012 NFL Mock Draft Version 2.0: Philadelphia Eagles Select Fletcher Cox, DT, Mississippi State

The Philadelphia Eagles have been projected by most analysts to select a linebacker in the first round of the upcoming NFL Draft. But if many of the top linebackers go off the board early, the Eagles could address their biggest weakness another way while looking in a separate direction with their first round selection.

In Mel Kiper's latest 2012 NFL Mock Draft, the ESPN analyst has the Eagles choosing defensive tackle Fletcher Cox from Mississippi State with the No. 15 pick.

No team was softer up the middle than Philly in 2011, and while linebacker is a bigger need, it wouldn't be a very good value here if the board lines up like this. In Cox, you get a player who should be great in the 3-4, a powerful bull-rusher who can collapse the pocket, but also a guy who does a good job against the run and plays with a really high motor. I have wide receiver as another potential need, but the Philly defense needs to be a bigger priority in the draft. The Eagles can target a linebacker in the next round.

Cox is rated No. 69 among Mocking The Draft's Top 100 NFL Draft Prospects and No. 31 on the National Football Post's NFL Draft Big Board, so he could be a reach in the middle of the first round. The National Football Post writes that Cox is "raw" and could use to lower his pad level, but his versatility is a major asset.

For more updates on the Eagles, check out Bleeding Green Nation and for more updates on the upcoming draft, head to Mocking the Draft.

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2012 NFL Draft: Mel Kiper's Top 5 WRs

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2012 NFL Mock Draft: Eagles Select Luke Kuechly of Boston College

In the latest SB Nation mock draft released Monday morning, the Philadelphia Eagles are bulking up on defense.

With the 15th overall pick, the Eagles are slated to take inside linebacker Luke Kuechly. It's been widely discussed that Philadelphia desperately needs some help with its linebacking core. Kuechly would provide instant help to a team with very high expectations for the near future.

Kuechly was an absolute force of nature for Boston College. In 2011, he amassed an eye-popping 191 tackles which easily led the nation.

He also took home quite a bit of hardware, winning the Butkus Award (best college linebacker), Lombardi Award (best defensive lineman or linebacker), Bronko Nagurski Award (best college defensive player) and the Lott IMPACT award (defensive impact player of the year).

Kuechly would make a nice fit as the defense's quarterback for the 4-3 scheme Juan Castillo is running. If he's still on the board by the time Andy Reid and co. select, Kuechly would make for a very nice pick.

For more on the Eagles, head over to Bleeding Green Nation.

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2012 NFL Mock Draft: Philadelphia Eagles, Luke Kuechly Linked Again

The name Luke Kuechly is becoming a familiar one to any Philadelphia Eagles fans with an interest in the NFL Draft.

SB Nation's latest 2012 NFL Mock Draft is the most recent to project the Eagles selecting Kuechly, a middle linebacker from Boston College who set the ACC record for most career tackles (532).

The Eagles defense should take a big leap forward with a foundation middle linebacker in the mix. That's exactly what they get with Kuechly. His instincts and tough play should end the Eagles troubles of being steamrolled by opposing running backs.

Mocking The Draft ranks Kuechly No. 12 among its Top 100 NFL Draft Prospects, calling the Boston College product " the most instinctual linebacker prospect since James Laurinaitis in the 2009 NFL Draft."

Kuechly is viewed by most as a can't-miss prospect whose ceiling is hindered by a lack of elite athleticism, but should be able to contribute immediately and carve a nice NFL career.

For more updates on the Eagles, check out Bleeding Green Nation and for more updates on the upcoming draft, head to Mocking the Draft.

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2012 NFL Mock Draft: SI's Don Banks Picks Luke Kuechly For Eagles

The 2012 NFL Draft order isn't 100 percent set due to the fact that the New England Patriots and New York Giants still have to play in Super Bowl XLVI. However, the Philadelphia Eagles knew that they would be picking at No. 15 in the first round of the 2012 draft since the end of the regular season. Sports Illustrated came out with a new mock draft on Friday and in it, Don Banks selected Boston College inside linebacker Luke Kuechly for the Eagles.

When you say the words "linebacker" and "Boston College" in the same sentence, Eagles fans still instantly think of Mike Mamula, the team's over-hyped first-rounder in 1995. But Kuechly is this year's finest inside linebacker prospect, and that's where the crying need lies on Philly's defense.

The 6-foot-2, 235-pound linebacker is ranked by ESPN as the best inside linebacker in this year's draft class and is ranked as the seventh best college player entering the draft overall. SB Nation's Mocking the Draft says that Kuechly was by far the best tackler in college football.

Kuechly was far and away the nation's leading tackler this season with 191 stops. That's almost 16 a game.He had 23 alone in the third game of the season against Duke. As a junior, Kuechly won both the Lott IMPACT Trophy, and the Butkus, Nagurski and Lombardi awards.

For more updates on the Eagles, check out Bleeding Green Nation and for more updates on the upcoming draft, head to Mocking the Draft.

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2012 NFL Mock Draft: Philadelphia Eagles Take Vontaze Burfict

As we all know, the dream team turned into a nightmare this past season. Going into 2012 the Eagles need to make some moves defensively, and the Bleacher Report seems to agree.

The mock draft has Philadelphia taking linebacker Vontaze Burfict of Arizona State with it's first pick. Burfict is the type of boom or bust player that excites fans and makes them worry at the same time. He has incredible talent but a reputation as somewhat of a head-case.

Burfict would come in and presumably start right away. Andy Reid has to be thinking defense with his first selection. While the offensive line needs help, the left tackle spot isn't a problem. Unless everything else on the team is perfect, you're probably not going to draft any other O-Line position in the initial round.

Of course, all of this is subject to change once the NFL Combine starts a month from now in Indianapolis. All it takes for any of these NFL hopefuls is one slip-up in a drill (especially the 40-yard dash) and their stock plummets. Conversely, a good showing can move them up a couple of rounds.

If Burfict does stay near the top of most boards as expected, it'll be interesting to see what the Eagles if he's available when they're on the clock in April.

For more Eagles news, check out Bleeding Green Nation.

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2012 NFL Mock Draft: Philadelphia Eagles Linked To Luke Kuechly, Again

NFL Draft pundits widely expect the Philadelphia Eagles to select a linebacker, and Luke Kuechly is the one prospect most prominently linked to Philadelphia.

In its latest 2012 NFL Mock Draft, SB Nation projected the Eagles to select Kuechly with the No. 15 pick.

15. Philadelphia Eagles, Luke Kuechly, MLB, Boston College

Does Philly still call Juan Castillo their defensive coordinator? Amazing. It's the only coaching staff in pro sports that seems to have a tenure system. Chastened by the experience in 2011, they know they need to get a linebacker. Kuechly is the best of the bunch.

Kuechly is rated No. 12 among Mocking The Draft's Top 100 NFL Draft Prospects. The site describes Kuechly as an intelligent player with great instincts who stuffs the stat sheet despite a lack of superb athleticism.

For more Philadelphia Eagles coverage, visit our team page or our blog Bleeding Green Nation. If you need more of an 2012 NFL Mock Draft fix, check out the SB Nation blog Mocking The Draft.

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Mel Kiper Mock Draft 1.0: A Familiar Name For Philadelphia Eagles

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2012 NFL Mock Draft, Philadelphia Eagles Prospect Profiles: Luke Kuechly, LB, Boston College

The latest Sports Illustrated 2012 NFL Mock Draft has the Philadelphia Eagles selecting Boston College linebacker Luke Kuechly with the 15th pick of the 2012 NFL Draft.

Kuechly put together one of the most celebrated college careers any NCAA linebacker has ever had, breaking the school record and ACC record with 532 career tackles. During his junior season, Kuechly's last before declaring for April's draft, the linebacker had 191 tackles, just two shy of the NCAA single-season record despite the fact that Boston College did not qualify for postseason play.

Kuechly is listed as the 12th-best prospect in Mocking The Draft's Top 100 NFL Draft Prospects list. The site notes that while Kuechly's athleticism is not off the charts, his instincts are the best at the linebacker position "since James Laurinaitis in the 2009 NFL Draft."

The National Football Post's 2012 NFL Draft Big Board has Kuechly rated as the 15th-best prospect. The site writes, "He's not the biggest, strongest or fastest of athletes. But he's instinctive, plays faster than he times, finds the football in all areas of the game and can really tackle. He's going to be a bit limited in coverage, but he's instinctive enough to play on third down in zone and should end up being one of the NFL's top tackling linebackers for years to come."

For more Philadelphia Eagles coverage, visit our team page or our blog Bleeding Green Nation.