The Eagles could get lucky on Thursday night. A few of the team’s top-ranked prospects could still be available when they are on the clock with the 23rd pick.
Eagles general manager Howie Roseman could strengthen Philadelphia’s offensive line, add a playmaker, bolster the pass rush, or improve the safety position.
Here are the top 20 prospects Philadelphia could potentially draft in the first round:
Freeling has elite upside due to his athleticism, size (6-7, 315 pounds) and long arms (34 3/4″).
He ran a 4.93 in the 40-yard dash at the NFL Combine, and that speed translates when he reaches the second level quickly to block linebackers.
Freeling struggles with power rushers and is not a consistent run blocker. He lunges, loses his balance and ends up on the ground too often.
A one-year starter at Georgia, Freeling could benefit from a redshirt year in the NFL. The Eagles could provide an ideal situation for Freeling’s development. He could sit behind right tackle Lane Johnson next season and take over the starting job after Johnson retires. He’s only 21 years old.
Proctor is a humongous tackle. He generates freakish power from his 6-7, 352-pound frame and consistently drives defensive linemen off the ball.
His lack of foot speed gets him in trouble against explosive pass rushers. He has also reportedly struggled with conditioning and being overweight. Despite those concerns, the Eagles could gamble on Proctor in the first round, believing they can get him to reach his upside.
Proctor could become Philadelphia’s long-term starter at right tackle or right guard. His versatility could make him more valuable to the Eagles as they brace for several changes on the offensive line in the coming years.
Iheanachor started playing football just five years ago, making him one of the rawest prospects in the draft.
The Eagles wouldn’t rush him onto the field as a rookie. He would learn behind Johnson, refine his technique, and position himself as the starter when Johnson retires.
Iheanachor boasts an impressive combination of size (6-5⅞, 321 pounds), length (33⅞”), athleticism and power. He’s light on his feet and does a great job of shutting down explosive pass rushers.
At 6-6, 313 pounds, Lomu’s explosive burst and quick feet help him mirror pass rushers and reach the second level in the run game.
Lomu currently lacks the strength, power and play demeanor to make an immediate impact. Power edge rushers could overwhelm him.
The 21-year-old could get stronger in an NFL weight room and improve his power. He could become the guy after Johnson retires.
Miller has the best chance of succeeding as a rookie among the tackles on this list.
During Clemson’s matchup against South Carolina this past season, he did a great job of mirroring and keeping future first-round pass rusher Dylan Stewart in check. His pass-pro technique is refined, and his long arms (34¼”) give him a significant advantage.
He is a young prospect—22 years old—with four years of starting experience. The Eagles could take Miller over the other tackle prospects if they believe he has a higher floor and a solid ceiling.
Ioane is a mean, tough bully on the field. He drives defenders off the ball consistently and always looks for extra work. His powerful base and stout anchor give him a tremendous ceiling as a pass protector and run blocker. He could beat out Tyler Steen for the right guard job next season.