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.