*** 2013 Official Philadelphia Eagles - NFC EAST CHAMPS*** (1 Viewer)

[Awful Waffle]

Pretty sure Jordan can, you know, add weight.

 

[Deranged Hermit]

Here's an interesting tidbit: I was talking to my buddy after he was at lunch with another scout (not an Eagles scout) and he was told that the scuttlebutt he was hearing is that, where the draft today (and, obviously, he were available)the Eagles would take Jordan. My friend was surprised since he thought a OT was a slam dunk as long as either of the top two were still available and the other scout said "From what I'm hearing, they won't be".Anyway, take from it what you will. It's pretty much just two guys gossiping like housewives. Probably won't mean much come draft time.

 

[Bigboy10182000]

Here's an interesting tidbit: I was talking to my buddy after he was at lunch with another scout (not an Eagles scout) and he was told that the scuttlebutt he was hearing is that, where the draft today (and, obviously, he were available)the Eagles would take Jordan. My friend was surprised since he thought a OT was a slam dunk as long as either of the top two were still available and the other scout said "From what I'm hearing, they won't be".Anyway, take from it what you will. It's pretty much just two guys gossiping like housewives. Probably won't mean much come draft time.

The OT's very well could go 1 & 2. Oakland and Jacksonville need so much and could of in any direction with their pick.

 

[Deranged Hermit]

Just wanted to add this: The reason he brought that up was because I called him because I wanted to get his input on Jordan since I knew little about him. He didn't call me out of the blue and volunteer the info. BTW, he agrees with me that Milliner would be his pick for the Eagles If Joeckel were gone.

 

[JAA]

NFL Draft Profile: Oregon DE/OLB Dion Jordan

I'm still not sure about Jordan, but this little blurb was nice to read:

His box scores may not appeal to everyone, but Jordan was frequently asked to cover receivers or tight ends after lining up in the slot opposite them. His future appears to be at strongside linebacker in a four man front, with the ability to rush the passer, or as an outside linebacker in a three-man front.

Been a loooong time since the Eagles had a LB who could cover, well, anyone.

That was what stood out to me as well. Graham seems like a guy who could rush the passer so we would need a guy to complement him and Jordan reads like a guy who can IMO. He may be more situational in his first year but seems like he could be a star come year 2. Chip is VERY familiar with him as well.The more I read about Jordan and the more I watch he's becoming the guy I want. He could be a true differeance maker for this D and someone to build around.

Reminds me of a Terrell Suggs

 

[Insein]

We have needs, plenty of them. Right now it looks like the only ones we'll have to blame if we don't add an impact starter at 1.04 are ourselves for picking the wrong guy.

Well not really ourselves. I'd blame Howie and Chip.

 

[Ash]

NFL Draft Profile: Oregon DE/OLB Dion Jordan

I'm still not sure about Jordan, but this little blurb was nice to read:

His box scores may not appeal to everyone, but Jordan was frequently asked to cover receivers or tight ends after lining up in the slot opposite them. His future appears to be at strongside linebacker in a four man front, with the ability to rush the passer, or as an outside linebacker in a three-man front.

Been a loooong time since the Eagles had a LB who could cover, well, anyone.

I watched about 10m of cutups of him on one of the draft sites and he did that quite a bit. They'd switch him up a lot between those looks as well, rush him out of a coverage look and drop him into coverage from a rush stance. He looked pretty natural doing both. Wouldn't have a problem with him at 1.04.I quite like Milliner as well, and I think CB is a key position to have good players, with the league more and more dominated by the passing game.

I'm not as keen on Star as some others, I watched 3 games worth of cutups on him and don't really see him as a NT. He has an awesome first step and great lower body strength, and drives guys into the backfield a lot but struggles to disengage consistently even from single blocks. The amount of time he spends in the backfield doesn't translate into the number of big plays it should. There was a time or two in each game when he drove a G into the backfield only to have the RB go right past him through that hole because he couldn't shed the guy even though he was driving him back, or just didn't recognize the play quick enough.

He's got great potential but I think he's less a NT than a 43 DT, even though I'm probably alone on that. Not sure he's a 1st yr starter, seems like he needs some time to put it all together.

I went back and watched some 2011 film on Fletcher Cox just in case I was being too hard on Star. Looked pretty clear to me, Cox was a better player although Star probably has more physical talent.

As a NT I like Jesse Williams. He really can hold a guy up and move him either way to put himself in the gap. He anchors well vs. double teams too. I watched a bit of John Jenkins too, didn't look very strong for his size and seemed to give ground a lot to keep guys off his legs, although I only watched a little bit of him. He's another guy I'm not sure makes an early impact.

 

[Nucker101]

NFL Draft Profile: Oregon DE/OLB Dion Jordan

I'm still not sure about Jordan, but this little blurb was nice to read:

His box scores may not appeal to everyone, but Jordan was frequently asked to cover receivers or tight ends after lining up in the slot opposite them. His future appears to be at strongside linebacker in a four man front, with the ability to rush the passer, or as an outside linebacker in a three-man front.

Been a loooong time since the Eagles had a LB who could cover, well, anyone.

I watched about 10m of cutups of him on one of the draft sites and he did that quite a bit. They'd switch him up a lot between those looks as well, rush him out of a coverage look and drop him into coverage from a rush stance. He looked pretty natural doing both. Wouldn't have a problem with him at 1.04.I quite like Milliner as well, and I think CB is a key position to have good players, with the league more and more dominated by the passing game.

I'm not as keen on Star as some others, I watched 3 games worth of cutups on him and don't really see him as a NT. He has an awesome first step and great lower body strength, and drives guys into the backfield a lot but struggles to disengage consistently even from single blocks. The amount of time he spends in the backfield doesn't translate into the number of big plays it should. There was a time or two in each game when he drove a G into the backfield only to have the RB go right past him through that hole because he couldn't shed the guy even though he was driving him back, or just didn't recognize the play quick enough.

He's got great potential but I think he's less a NT than a 43 DT, even though I'm probably alone on that. Not sure he's a 1st yr starter, seems like he needs some time to put it all together.

I went back and watched some 2011 film on Fletcher Cox just in case I was being too hard on Star. Looked pretty clear to me, Cox was a better player although Star probably has more physical talent.

As a NT I like Jesse Williams. He really can hold a guy up and move him either way to put himself in the gap. He anchors well vs. double teams too. I watched a bit of John Jenkins too, didn't look very strong for his size and seemed to give ground a lot to keep guys off his legs, although I only watched a little bit of him. He's another guy I'm not sure makes an early impact.

I've watched some videos and read a lot of stuff about the possible draft choices for the Eagles and I have to agree that Star would be the one possible pick that I don't like. I'd prefer one of the OT's, Millner, or Jordan as of right now. I agree that the importance of a pas rusher and shutdown corner is even bigger in today's game, there's no denying that a strong pass defense is extremely important.

 

[scratcher]

NFL Draft Profile: Oregon DE/OLB Dion Jordan

I'm still not sure about Jordan, but this little blurb was nice to read:

His box scores may not appeal to everyone, but Jordan was frequently asked to cover receivers or tight ends after lining up in the slot opposite them. His future appears to be at strongside linebacker in a four man front, with the ability to rush the passer, or as an outside linebacker in a three-man front.

Been a loooong time since the Eagles had a LB who could cover, well, anyone.

I watched about 10m of cutups of him on one of the draft sites and he did that quite a bit. They'd switch him up a lot between those looks as well, rush him out of a coverage look and drop him into coverage from a rush stance. He looked pretty natural doing both. Wouldn't have a problem with him at 1.04.I quite like Milliner as well, and I think CB is a key position to have good players, with the league more and more dominated by the passing game.

I'm not as keen on Star as some others, I watched 3 games worth of cutups on him and don't really see him as a NT. He has an awesome first step and great lower body strength, and drives guys into the backfield a lot but struggles to disengage consistently even from single blocks. The amount of time he spends in the backfield doesn't translate into the number of big plays it should. There was a time or two in each game when he drove a G into the backfield only to have the RB go right past him through that hole because he couldn't shed the guy even though he was driving him back, or just didn't recognize the play quick enough.

He's got great potential but I think he's less a NT than a 43 DT, even though I'm probably alone on that. Not sure he's a 1st yr starter, seems like he needs some time to put it all together.

I went back and watched some 2011 film on Fletcher Cox just in case I was being too hard on Star. Looked pretty clear to me, Cox was a better player although Star probably has more physical talent.

As a NT I like Jesse Williams. He really can hold a guy up and move him either way to put himself in the gap. He anchors well vs. double teams too. I watched a bit of John Jenkins too, didn't look very strong for his size and seemed to give ground a lot to keep guys off his legs, although I only watched a little bit of him. He's another guy I'm not sure makes an early impact.

I've watched some videos and read a lot of stuff about the possible draft choices for the Eagles and I have to agree that Star would be the one possible pick that I don't like. I'd prefer one of the OT's, Millner, or Jordan as of right now. I agree that the importance of a pas rusher and shutdown corner is even bigger in today's game, there's no denying that a strong pass defense is extremely important.

With his heart condition, it might drop him out of the first. I wouldnt mind a second round flier on him.

 

[Bigboy10182000]

@Gil_Brandt: Been awhile since no clear-cut No. 1 pick. I see 5 possibilities if @kcchiefs keep it: Joeckel, Werner, Fisher, Milliner, Mingo

 

[Bigboy10182000]

@ZBerm: Eagles work out G.J. Kinne, expected to sign him after procedural issues. Will be 5th QB on roster, likely a camp arm:http://t.co/7ekG3IdSbU

 

[Bigboy10182000]

@AdamSchefter: Teams with most cap room this am: CINCY $54 million under; CLEV $48 mil; MIAMI $47 mil; INDY $44.5 mil; PHIL $33.5 mi; TB $32.5 mil.

 

[Bigboy10182000]

Five Players the Eagles Could Take At No. 4Posted by Sheil Kapadia on February 28, 2013 at 11:45 am | 52 CommentsA fellow reporter asked me the following question last week at the Combine: If you had to choose right now, who do the Eagles take with the No. 4 pick?It’s a question that will be tossed around quite a bit in the next two months. Eight weeks from tonight, Roger Goodell will step up to the podium in New York City and announce that the Chiefs are on the clock.So from time to time between now and then, I’ll offer my list of the top-five Eagles possibilities (in no particular order).Dion Jordan, OLB/DE, OregonWhy he makes sense: We wrote about the 6-6, 248-pounder at length yesterday. With his unique blend of length, speed and production, Jordan would add a versatile piece to the Eagles’ defense and could play outside linebacker in a 3-4 or SAM linebacker in a 4-3 under. Chip Kelly and Jerry Azzinaro coached him in college, and Kelly admitted last week that Jordan has a special place in his heart.Why he doesn’t: Jordan did not put up gaudy sack totals in college, but part of that was because of how he was used. He’ll need to add weight, which will not be easy right away, considering Jordan is scheduled to have surgery to repair a torn labrum (shoulder) on March 12 and will face a three-to-four month rehab stint. Jordan has high upside, but is not a proven commodity.** By the way, Jordan was my answer to the initial question at the top of this post.Luke Joeckel, OT, Texas A&MWhy he makes sense: He is one of the few consensus top-five picks on the board. At 6-6, 306, Joeckel has the size and experience (three-year starter) at a position that teams value. If Jason Peters is healthy, Joeckel would have to start his NFL career at right tackle, and Todd Herremans would move inside to guard. Herremans is 30, and Peters is 31, so the Eagles very well could be on the lookout for a young tackle prospect.Why he doesn’t: There’s not a whole lot here. The only thing you could really point to is he didn’t blow anyone away with his athleticism at the Combine. But by all accounts, the tape holds up. There’s a decent chance that Joeckel will be gone by the time the Eagles pick at No. 4.Eric Fisher, OT, Central MichiganWhy he makes sense: At 6-7, 306, he too has prototypical size to be an NFL left tackle. He makes sense for many of the same reasons Joeckel makes sense. Fisher can come in, play right tackle and provide some youth at a very important position for the Eagles. “I already thought the gap was closed, to be honest with you,” said NFL Network’s Mike Mayock, when asked about Fisher’s Combine performance. “I thought Eric Fisher closed the gap at the Senior Bowl. I loved him on the Michigan State [tape] before the Senior Bowl, and for me I don’t see a whole lot of difference between Joeckel and Fisher.”Why he doesn’t: Playing in the MAC, Fisher didn’t play against top-level competition on a weekly basis, although Central Michigan did face Big Ten opponents Michigan State and Iowa last season. That’s why the pre-draft process was important for Fisher, and he’s done well for himself at the Senior Bowl and Combine.Dee Milliner, CB, AlabamaWhy he makes sense: Milliner is the consensus top corner in the draft. At 6-0, 201 pounds, he opened some eyes with his 4.37 40 time at the Combine. Milliner would bring toughness to the Eagles’ secondary, and with no young, starting-caliber corners on the roster, he would fill a glaring need.Why he doesn’t: The question with Milliner appears to be upside. Is his ceiling a perennial Pro Bowler or just a really good corner? Only two cornerbacks have been taken in the top five in the past 10 years. But if the Eagles think he’s special, Milliner could be the pick.Geno Smith, QB, West VirginiaWhy he makes sense: There’s plenty to like about Smith. He’s got decent size (6-2, 218), arm strength and athleticism (4.59 in the 40). A three-year starter, Smith threw 98 touchdowns and just 21 interceptions. Smith is not considered a can’t-miss prospect, but he appears to have plenty of attractive tools to work with. As always, QB evaluation varies from team to team. But if Chip Kelly likes what he sees out of Smith, don’t rule him out at No. 4.Why he doesn’t: According to Mayock and other draft analysts, Smith’s issues have to do with consistency and footwork. Teams will have to determine whether those issues are correctable with coaching at the next level. His numbers are also skewed because of West Virginia’s system. For example, Smith completed 71.2 percent of his passes, but more than 33 percent of his attempts were behind the line of scrimmage.JUST MISSED THE CUTThis type of post often leads to a bunch of How could you leave [insert prospect's name] off the list?! comments – which is perfectly fine. But I’ll at least offer a quick (preemptive) breakdown of the guys who just missed the cut.Sharrif Floyd, DT, Florida – Certainly not ready to rule him out completely. Floyd was probably the toughest omission from my top five. He can play defensive end in a 3-4 and either a 3-technique or a 5-technique in a 4-3 under. Floyd has drawn comparisons to Fletcher Cox, which is not a bad thing, considering how well Cox played as a rookie. But do the Eagles want to spent first-round picks in consecutive years on similar players? If they think he’s clearly the best available, they might decide that’s OK.Jarvis Jones, OLB, Georgia - The key with him is medical. According to PFT, multiple teams have taken Jones off the board because of his spinal stenosis. But ESPN’s Chris Mortensen said Jones got a favorable medical review at the Combine. At 6-2, 245, Jones might not have the ideal length Kelly is looking for. But there’s no doubting his production. Jones played in the SEC and led the nation in sacks (14.5), tackles for loss (24.5) and forced fumbles (7). He most likely projects as an outside linebacker in a 3-4.Star Lotulelei, DT, Utah – Like Jones, the concern with Lotulelei is medical. He had to leave the Combine after tests showed an abnormal heart condition. We recently detailed Lotulelei’s round-about journey to the NFL. If his medical checks out, he’s expected to be a first-round pick. And he could play nose tackle for the Eagles.Chance Warmack, OG, Alabama – The Eagles have the inside scoop on Warmack, considering offensive line coach Jeff Stoutland was with him at Alabama. It seems like every year there’s a “can’t miss perennial Pro Bowl guard” in the first round. But look at the nine guards who got Pro Bowl recognition last year. Only two were first-round picks. Mayock called Warmack the best player he’s seen on tape so far. But I just don’t see the Eagles taking him as a top-five pick.Follow Sheil Kapadia on Twitter and e-mail him at skapadia@phillymag.com.Become a fan of Birds 24/7 on Facebook.‹ Eagles Wake-Up Call: Post-Combine Mock DraftsTwitter Mailbag: On Revis, Foles And the No. 4 Pick ›Tagged with: Chip Kelly, Sheil KapadiaPosted in Uncategorized- See more at: http://www.phillymag.com/eagles/2013/02/28/five-players-the-eagles-could-take-at-no-4/#sthash.kpegpn1c.dpuf

 

[Bigboy10182000]

It was wishful thinking I know..EyeOnNFL: Bills place franchise tag on S Jairus Byrd http://t.co/zGFKwlgQg1

 

[Bigboy10182000]

@SheilKapadia: Brandon Graham tells @Tim_McManus he's shedding weight for switch to OLB, working out w/LaMarr Woodley. http://t.co/BWD0g1Q6IP

 

[bicycle_seat_sniffer]

@AdamSchefter: Teams with most cap room this am: CINCY $54 million under; CLEV $48 mil; MIAMI $47 mil; INDY $44.5 mil; PHIL $33.5 mi; TB $32.5 mil.

when does the cap floor kick in? is that this season?

 

[Insein]

Five Players the Eagles Could Take At No. 4Posted by Sheil Kapadia on February 28, 2013 at 11:45 am | 52 CommentsA fellow reporter asked me the following question last week at the Combine: If you had to choose right now, who do the Eagles take with the No. 4 pick?It’s a question that will be tossed around quite a bit in the next two months. Eight weeks from tonight, Roger Goodell will step up to the podium in New York City and announce that the Chiefs are on the clock.So from time to time between now and then, I’ll offer my list of the top-five Eagles possibilities (in no particular order).Dion Jordan, OLB/DE, OregonWhy he makes sense: We wrote about the 6-6, 248-pounder at length yesterday. With his unique blend of length, speed and production, Jordan would add a versatile piece to the Eagles’ defense and could play outside linebacker in a 3-4 or SAM linebacker in a 4-3 under. Chip Kelly and Jerry Azzinaro coached him in college, and Kelly admitted last week that Jordan has a special place in his heart.Why he doesn’t: Jordan did not put up gaudy sack totals in college, but part of that was because of how he was used. He’ll need to add weight, which will not be easy right away, considering Jordan is scheduled to have surgery to repair a torn labrum (shoulder) on March 12 and will face a three-to-four month rehab stint. Jordan has high upside, but is not a proven commodity.** By the way, Jordan was my answer to the initial question at the top of this post.Luke Joeckel, OT, Texas A&MWhy he makes sense: He is one of the few consensus top-five picks on the board. At 6-6, 306, Joeckel has the size and experience (three-year starter) at a position that teams value. If Jason Peters is healthy, Joeckel would have to start his NFL career at right tackle, and Todd Herremans would move inside to guard. Herremans is 30, and Peters is 31, so the Eagles very well could be on the lookout for a young tackle prospect.Why he doesn’t: There’s not a whole lot here. The only thing you could really point to is he didn’t blow anyone away with his athleticism at the Combine. But by all accounts, the tape holds up. There’s a decent chance that Joeckel will be gone by the time the Eagles pick at No. 4.Eric Fisher, OT, Central MichiganWhy he makes sense: At 6-7, 306, he too has prototypical size to be an NFL left tackle. He makes sense for many of the same reasons Joeckel makes sense. Fisher can come in, play right tackle and provide some youth at a very important position for the Eagles. “I already thought the gap was closed, to be honest with you,” said NFL Network’s Mike Mayock, when asked about Fisher’s Combine performance. “I thought Eric Fisher closed the gap at the Senior Bowl. I loved him on the Michigan State [tape] before the Senior Bowl, and for me I don’t see a whole lot of difference between Joeckel and Fisher.”Why he doesn’t: Playing in the MAC, Fisher didn’t play against top-level competition on a weekly basis, although Central Michigan did face Big Ten opponents Michigan State and Iowa last season. That’s why the pre-draft process was important for Fisher, and he’s done well for himself at the Senior Bowl and Combine.Dee Milliner, CB, AlabamaWhy he makes sense: Milliner is the consensus top corner in the draft. At 6-0, 201 pounds, he opened some eyes with his 4.37 40 time at the Combine. Milliner would bring toughness to the Eagles’ secondary, and with no young, starting-caliber corners on the roster, he would fill a glaring need.Why he doesn’t: The question with Milliner appears to be upside. Is his ceiling a perennial Pro Bowler or just a really good corner? Only two cornerbacks have been taken in the top five in the past 10 years. But if the Eagles think he’s special, Milliner could be the pick.Geno Smith, QB, West VirginiaWhy he makes sense: There’s plenty to like about Smith. He’s got decent size (6-2, 218), arm strength and athleticism (4.59 in the 40). A three-year starter, Smith threw 98 touchdowns and just 21 interceptions. Smith is not considered a can’t-miss prospect, but he appears to have plenty of attractive tools to work with. As always, QB evaluation varies from team to team. But if Chip Kelly likes what he sees out of Smith, don’t rule him out at No. 4.Why he doesn’t: According to Mayock and other draft analysts, Smith’s issues have to do with consistency and footwork. Teams will have to determine whether those issues are correctable with coaching at the next level. His numbers are also skewed because of West Virginia’s system. For example, Smith completed 71.2 percent of his passes, but more than 33 percent of his attempts were behind the line of scrimmage.JUST MISSED THE CUTThis type of post often leads to a bunch of How could you leave [insert prospect's name] off the list?! comments – which is perfectly fine. But I’ll at least offer a quick (preemptive) breakdown of the guys who just missed the cut.Sharrif Floyd, DT, Florida – Certainly not ready to rule him out completely. Floyd was probably the toughest omission from my top five. He can play defensive end in a 3-4 and either a 3-technique or a 5-technique in a 4-3 under. Floyd has drawn comparisons to Fletcher Cox, which is not a bad thing, considering how well Cox played as a rookie. But do the Eagles want to spent first-round picks in consecutive years on similar players? If they think he’s clearly the best available, they might decide that’s OK.Jarvis Jones, OLB, Georgia - The key with him is medical. According to PFT, multiple teams have taken Jones off the board because of his spinal stenosis. But ESPN’s Chris Mortensen said Jones got a favorable medical review at the Combine. At 6-2, 245, Jones might not have the ideal length Kelly is looking for. But there’s no doubting his production. Jones played in the SEC and led the nation in sacks (14.5), tackles for loss (24.5) and forced fumbles (7). He most likely projects as an outside linebacker in a 3-4.Star Lotulelei, DT, Utah – Like Jones, the concern with Lotulelei is medical. He had to leave the Combine after tests showed an abnormal heart condition. We recently detailed Lotulelei’s round-about journey to the NFL. If his medical checks out, he’s expected to be a first-round pick. And he could play nose tackle for the Eagles.Chance Warmack, OG, Alabama – The Eagles have the inside scoop on Warmack, considering offensive line coach Jeff Stoutland was with him at Alabama. It seems like every year there’s a “can’t miss perennial Pro Bowl guard” in the first round. But look at the nine guards who got Pro Bowl recognition last year. Only two were first-round picks. Mayock called Warmack the best player he’s seen on tape so far. But I just don’t see the Eagles taking him as a top-five pick.Follow Sheil Kapadia on Twitter and e-mail him at skapadia@phillymag.com.Become a fan of Birds 24/7 on Facebook.‹ Eagles Wake-Up Call: Post-Combine Mock DraftsTwitter Mailbag: On Revis, Foles And the No. 4 Pick ›Tagged with: Chip Kelly, Sheil KapadiaPosted in Uncategorized- See more at: http://www.phillymag.com/eagles/2013/02/28/five-players-the-eagles-could-take-at-no-4/#sthash.kpegpn1c.dpuf

Good breakdown. While I hope they don't go with Smith, you can't rule it out anymore. The QBs they have on the roster aren't the future with the exception of not knowing what Foles has. IF Kelly liked Foles though, Vick would be gone. So if Kelly falls in love with Geno, the only place he could get him is there. Maybe trade back and grab a pick or 2 but I'm pretty sure Geno will be top 10 just because he's the best QB in the draft.

 

[Insein]

@SheilKapadia: Brandon Graham tells @Tim_McManus he's shedding weight for switch to OLB, working out w/LaMarr Woodley. http://t.co/BWD0g1Q6IP

I'm actually optimistic about Graham this year. I think this is the position he should have been playing and is most natural for him (which is why the Eagles moving up to grab him made no sense at all). I don't see Cole fitting in though. I think we need to try to move him for a 3rd if we can to a 4-3 team in need of a pass rush. Maybe Jax.

 

[Faust]

@SheilKapadia: Brandon Graham tells @Tim_McManus he's shedding weight for switch to OLB, working out w/LaMarr Woodley. http://t.co/BWD0g1Q6IP

I'm actually optimistic about Graham this year. I think this is the position he should have been playing and is most natural for him (which is why the Eagles moving up to grab him made no sense at all). I don't see Cole fitting in though. I think we need to try to move him for a 3rd if we can to a 4-3 team in need of a pass rush. Maybe Jax.

Brandon Graham plans switch on Philadelphia Eagles By Kareem CopelandAround the League Writer

New Philadelphia Eagles coach Chip Kelly has yet to reveal exactly what his defense will look like, but Brandon Graham is getting ready for a switch to linebacker. The defensive end has an offseason plan to drop weight and play standing up. "I think linebacker is where I'm going to be - outside linebacker," Graham told Birds 24/7's Tim McManus. "I think once I get in the groove it will come natural for me. I'm just trying to be prepared for whatever. At the end of the day I am a ballplayer - I'll adjust and find a way to get out on the field."The goal is to get down to 260 pounds from Graham's playing weight of 270-275. He played linebacker in high school before switching to defensive end at the University of Michigan.Kelly has said he's fond of a 3-4 system, but wants to evaluate personnel first. At the NFL Scouting Combine, general manager Howie Roseman talked about Antonio Dixon being a 3-4 nose tackle and Graham and Trent Cole being able to move to outside linebacker. Many thought Graham could fit the role when he was the No. 13 overall pick in 2010.The biggest challenge for Graham will be getting used to playing in pass coverage.

 

[shimtown]

@SheilKapadia: Brandon Graham tells @Tim_McManus he's shedding weight for switch to OLB, working out w/LaMarr Woodley. http://t.co/BWD0g1Q6IP

I'm actually optimistic about Graham this year. I think this is the position he should have been playing and is most natural for him (which is why the Eagles moving up to grab him made no sense at all). I don't see Cole fitting in though. I think we need to try to move him for a 3rd if we can to a 4-3 team in need of a pass rush. Maybe Jax.

As much as I agree Cole is no longer a fit, if they were to trade or release him they would take a 6.4 mil cap hit because of the deal he signed last year. I dont see them doing that.eagles cap

 

[Faust]

Chip Kelly: Nnamdi Asomugha an 'outstanding' person

 

[JAA]

NFL Draft Profile: Oregon DE/OLB Dion Jordan

I'm still not sure about Jordan, but this little blurb was nice to read:

His box scores may not appeal to everyone, but Jordan was frequently asked to cover receivers or tight ends after lining up in the slot opposite them. His future appears to be at strongside linebacker in a four man front, with the ability to rush the passer, or as an outside linebacker in a three-man front.

Been a loooong time since the Eagles had a LB who could cover, well, anyone.

I watched about 10m of cutups of him on one of the draft sites and he did that quite a bit. They'd switch him up a lot between those looks as well, rush him out of a coverage look and drop him into coverage from a rush stance. He looked pretty natural doing both. Wouldn't have a problem with him at 1.04.I quite like Milliner as well, and I think CB is a key position to have good players, with the league more and more dominated by the passing game.

I'm not as keen on Star as some others, I watched 3 games worth of cutups on him and don't really see him as a NT. He has an awesome first step and great lower body strength, and drives guys into the backfield a lot but struggles to disengage consistently even from single blocks. The amount of time he spends in the backfield doesn't translate into the number of big plays it should. There was a time or two in each game when he drove a G into the backfield only to have the RB go right past him through that hole because he couldn't shed the guy even though he was driving him back, or just didn't recognize the play quick enough.

He's got great potential but I think he's less a NT than a 43 DT, even though I'm probably alone on that. Not sure he's a 1st yr starter, seems like he needs some time to put it all together.

I went back and watched some 2011 film on Fletcher Cox just in case I was being too hard on Star. Looked pretty clear to me, Cox was a better player although Star probably has more physical talent.

As a NT I like Jesse Williams. He really can hold a guy up and move him either way to put himself in the gap. He anchors well vs. double teams too. I watched a bit of John Jenkins too, didn't look very strong for his size and seemed to give ground a lot to keep guys off his legs, although I only watched a little bit of him. He's another guy I'm not sure makes an early impact.

I've watched some videos and read a lot of stuff about the possible draft choices for the Eagles and I have to agree that Star would be the one possible pick that I don't like. I'd prefer one of the OT's, Millner, or Jordan as of right now. I agree that the importance of a pas rusher and shutdown corner is even bigger in today's game, there's no denying that a strong pass defense is extremely important.

Not an endorsement of Star but ...The pass rush is 10x more important that elite cover corners. If you cant get the QB to release the ball in 3 seconds, any WR can get away from any CB. Im being sarcastic here, but I know you get the point.

If star is not the guy, Im OK with that. Unless Milliner is Deon Sanders or Leon Sandcastle, Im not interested. As much as it sucks to admit, I want us to model our defense after the NYG, even if we are a 3-4. We need to care deeply about the pass rush. Think about the lineman that the Giants have had in their Super Bowl runs. Im talking Strahan, Osi, Tuck, and now JPP. Thats what we should want. If that means taking Star, we take Star. If thats Jordan, lets take Jordan. BPA in the draft all across the board. Our team is bad enough we could do this and get upgrades at almost every position.

 

[Late225]

I still don't understand why Star could be the guy. I see him as more of a DE than a DT in the 3-4. I could be wrong, but why is Star a much better prospect than John Jenkins or Jesse Williams? We won't be able to get an elite pass rusher or elite OLineman in the second round, but we can get a guy to occupy space who an be just as effective as Star at the top of round 2. I still think a guy like TJ Barnes could be even more effective at clogging up the lanes and taking up space than Star and he'll probably be available in the fifth round.

 

[JAA]

I still don't understand why Star could be the guy. I see him as more of a DE than a DT in the 3-4. I could be wrong, but why is Star a much better prospect than John Jenkins or Jesse Williams? We won't be able to get an elite pass rusher or elite OLineman in the second round, but we can get a guy to occupy space who an be just as effective as Star at the top of round 2. I still think a guy like TJ Barnes could be even more effective at clogging up the lanes and taking up space than Star and he'll probably be available in the fifth round.

Not endorsing Star but ...I think the deal is finding a Vince Wilfolk. If you can find a pro-bowl NT for a 3-4 you draft him 1.01 every day and twice on Thursday night. Not sure Star is Vince, but if he is you have to take him

 

[Insein]

I still don't understand why Star could be the guy. I see him as more of a DE than a DT in the 3-4. I could be wrong, but why is Star a much better prospect than John Jenkins or Jesse Williams? We won't be able to get an elite pass rusher or elite OLineman in the second round, but we can get a guy to occupy space who an be just as effective as Star at the top of round 2. I still think a guy like TJ Barnes could be even more effective at clogging up the lanes and taking up space than Star and he'll probably be available in the fifth round.

Not endorsing Star but ...I think the deal is finding a Vince Wilfolk. If you can find a pro-bowl NT for a 3-4 you draft him 1.01 every day and twice on Thursday night. Not sure Star is Vince, but if he is you have to take him

I don't think Star will be the guy after the combine health issues were revealed. Too many question marks to take a guy that high. Same with me for milliner. I'm starting to come around on the OLBs like Jordan. Having a playmaker at that position would be nice for a change. Pair Jordan with Graham on the otherside as OLB is the 3-4 and we could have a ferocious pass rush. I still think OT should preside overall though. My updated pick list would be Joeckel-Fisher-Jordan-Lane Johnson-Milliner.

 

[Late225]

I still don't understand why Star could be the guy. I see him as more of a DE than a DT in the 3-4. I could be wrong, but why is Star a much better prospect than John Jenkins or Jesse Williams? We won't be able to get an elite pass rusher or elite OLineman in the second round, but we can get a guy to occupy space who an be just as effective as Star at the top of round 2. I still think a guy like TJ Barnes could be even more effective at clogging up the lanes and taking up space than Star and he'll probably be available in the fifth round.

Not endorsing Star but ...I think the deal is finding a Vince Wilfolk. If you can find a pro-bowl NT for a 3-4 you draft him 1.01 every day and twice on Thursday night. Not sure Star is Vince, but if he is you have to take him

I don't think Star will be the guy after the combine health issues were revealed. Too many question marks to take a guy that high. Same with me for milliner. I'm starting to come around on the OLBs like Jordan. Having a playmaker at that position would be nice for a change. Pair Jordan with Graham on the otherside as OLB is the 3-4 and we could have a ferocious pass rush. I still think OT should preside overall though. My updated pick list would be Joeckel-Fisher-Jordan-Lane Johnson-Milliner.

I like this also. Depending on tiers, I'd like to see the Eagles trade down if Joeckel and Fisher were both gone. I'm also starting to hear Jarvis Jones might slip all the way to the end of the first round or further. Can you imagine a D. Jordan/Jarvis Jones 1/2 round combo?

 

[Bigboy10182000]

I still don't understand why Star could be the guy. I see him as more of a DE than a DT in the 3-4. I could be wrong, but why is Star a much better prospect than John Jenkins or Jesse Williams? We won't be able to get an elite pass rusher or elite OLineman in the second round, but we can get a guy to occupy space who an be just as effective as Star at the top of round 2. I still think a guy like TJ Barnes could be even more effective at clogging up the lanes and taking up space than Star and he'll probably be available in the fifth round.

Not endorsing Star but ...I think the deal is finding a Vince Wilfolk. If you can find a pro-bowl NT for a 3-4 you draft him 1.01 every day and twice on Thursday night. Not sure Star is Vince, but if he is you have to take him

I don't think Star will be the guy after the combine health issues were revealed. Too many question marks to take a guy that high. Same with me for milliner. I'm starting to come around on the OLBs like Jordan. Having a playmaker at that position would be nice for a change. Pair Jordan with Graham on the otherside as OLB is the 3-4 and we could have a ferocious pass rush. I still think OT should preside overall though. My updated pick list would be Joeckel-Fisher-Jordan-Lane Johnson-Milliner.

I like this also. Depending on tiers, I'd like to see the Eagles trade down if Joeckel and Fisher were both gone. I'm also starting to hear Jarvis Jones might slip all the way to the end of the first round or further. Can you imagine a D. Jordan/Jarvis Jones 1/2 round combo?

I think with Graham and Jordan that would be overkill for OLB's. that second pick HAS to be a DB IMO

 

[Late225]

I understand your point, and this may be changed dramatically before the draft depending on which free agents we sign. With that being said, I hope they select the best player available on their board for every selection.I prefer cheap, "at least we have every position filled", free agent acquisitions. Anyway, here's a list of the "type" of guys I think we can/should acquire. I'm not exactly sure how much each of these guys would command, but I'd like to see them keep prices low and get "need" positions filled with bodies at the least before the draft so we can pick best player available. Feel free to rip any/all of this apart. 3-4 NT - Ricky Jean-Francois, Jason Jones, Richard Seymour, Casey Hampton, Desmond Bryant, Shaun Cody, Isaac Sopoaga3-4 DE - Alan Branch, Amobi Okoye, Albert Haynesworth? (I saw him on a list, why not mention him) 3-4 OLB - Calvin Pace, Shaun MerrimanCB - Captain Munnerlyn, Cedric Griffin, Marcus Trufant, Kyle ArringtonSafety - Yeremiah Bell, Jim Leonhard, Patrick Chung, Craig Dahl, Madeiu Williams

 

[Bigboy10182000]

No offense but other then Ricky Jean-Francois I hope we don't get any person on that list and even if we do get Ricky Jean-Francois he's a DE

 

[Bigboy10182000]

Eagles Watching Tag Game CloselyPosted by Tim McManus on March 2, 2013 at 2:25 pm | 9 CommentsThere have been some moves (and non-moves) around the league in recent days that could have an impact on the Eagles’ offseason plans.Teams have until Monday to use the franchise tag. So far, five clubs have opted to do so:Bengals — DE Michael JohnsonBears – DT Henry MeltonBroncos – OT Ryan CladyBills – S Jairus ByrdColts – P Pat McAfeeWith the Bengals’ tag going to Johnson, right tackle Andre Smith remains unprotected. The 6-4, 332-pounder was the fourth-highest rated tackle in the game last season, according to Pro Football Focus. He was selected sixth overall back in 2009 out of Alabama. Jeff Stoutland did not join the Tide until 2011 so their paths would not have crossed, but surely the O-line coach could call his former boss, Nick Saban, to get the lowdown.Smith is reportedly seeking a contract that will pay him $9 million a year. Then again, so am I.Similarly, the Bills’ decision to tag Byrd means 6-2, 306-pound guard Andy Levitre will become a free agent assuming he doesn’t strike a deal with Buffalo prior to March 12. A 2009 second-round pick out of Oregon State, Levitre was PFF’s ninth-rated guard in 2012, yielding one sack.Both Smith and Levitre are 26.Age could be a factor in Chip Kelly and Howie Roseman‘s thinking when it comes to free agency this year. They are looking big picture, and may not want to allocate resources to players who are entering the twilight of their careers.Also of note:– Atlanta released John Abraham, Dunta Robinson and Michael Turner. These moves should help the Falcons in their effort to re-sign some of their own free agents to-be, including safety William Moore and cornerback Brent Grimes.– The Cardinals released 28-year-old cornerback William Gay, formerly of the Steelers, as well as linebacker Stewart Bradley.– The Titans are expected to use the tag on tight end Jared Cook.– The Niners reportedly will not tag safety Dashon Goldson. The 28-year-old has made the Pro Bowl in each of the last two seasons, coming up with nine picks and 20 passes defensed in that time. Billy Davis mentioned the Niners’ physicality when talking about the kind of defense he would like to bring to Philadelphia. Former San Francisco personnel man Tom Gamble now works for the Eagles.- See more at: http://www.phillymag.com/eagles/2013/03/02/eagles-watching-tag-game-closely/#sthash.1jRwyuKY.dpuf

 

[Nagle2998]

I learn a lot here by listening a lot more than I post, but wondering what you guys think about the free agents mentioned in this article:My linkAnyone we realistically might go after?

I REALLY think we would have to make a play for Smith and/ or Goldston if they were to hit the market.I'd say it's maybe for Avril, Bennett or Ellerbe. I think a guy like Ricky Jean Francois makes more sense for our DL.The article mentions a lot of guards but I'm thinking they go OT and kick Herremans back inside but I wouldnt be mad if they tried for Levitre.I also would only want Cook if he came at a very resonable price but I dont see that happening with the money they have tied up in CelekI wouldnt mind that Honeybadger returning some kicks for us though

The one free agent I want is Andre Smith he is still young and has been one of the better RT the last two years. I agree with moving Herremans back inside I think he can play either tackle spot but he he is a much better OG. I don't want any free agents over 28 the Eagles have the money to be picky and they shouldn't try to fix everything in one year.

 

[Nucker101]

I understand your point, and this may be changed dramatically before the draft depending on which free agents we sign. With that being said, I hope they select the best player available on their board for every selection.I prefer cheap, "at least we have every position filled", free agent acquisitions. Anyway, here's a list of the "type" of guys I think we can/should acquire. I'm not exactly sure how much each of these guys would command, but I'd like to see them keep prices low and get "need" positions filled with bodies at the least before the draft so we can pick best player available. Feel free to rip any/all of this apart. 3-4 NT - Ricky Jean-Francois, Jason Jones, Richard Seymour, Casey Hampton, Desmond Bryant, Shaun Cody, Isaac Sopoaga3-4 DE - Alan Branch, Amobi Okoye, Albert Haynesworth? (I saw him on a list, why not mention him) 3-4 OLB - Calvin Pace, Shaun MerrimanCB - Captain Munnerlyn, Cedric Griffin, Marcus Trufant, Kyle ArringtonSafety - Yeremiah Bell, Jim Leonhard, Patrick Chung, Craig Dahl, Madeiu Williams

Not too ecstatic about any of those guys, most of them are reclamation projects, veterans past their primes or depth/rotation players at best. Looking at the CB FA list, I'd still really prefer to keep DRC if possible. He's always had the talent to be a shutdown corner and might thrive under a new coach and DC. For a NT you want someone with a ton of size that can eat up two blockers, a few guys you have there are pretty small for NT's. If you can't get a great NT, you might as well just sign someone big that can stuff the middle against the run, speed and athleticism should be considered a bonus. And I'll probably cry if the Eagles sign Captain Munnerlyn to start, I watched a few Panthers games last year and he was just awful at times and targeted by opposing QB's quite often.

 

[loose circuits]

I understand your point, and this may be changed dramatically before the draft depending on which free agents we sign. With that being said, I hope they select the best player available on their board for every selection.I prefer cheap, "at least we have every position filled", free agent acquisitions. Anyway, here's a list of the "type" of guys I think we can/should acquire. I'm not exactly sure how much each of these guys would command, but I'd like to see them keep prices low and get "need" positions filled with bodies at the least before the draft so we can pick best player available. Feel free to rip any/all of this apart. 3-4 NT - Ricky Jean-Francois, Jason Jones, Richard Seymour, Casey Hampton, Desmond Bryant, Shaun Cody, Isaac Sopoaga3-4 DE - Alan Branch, Amobi Okoye, Albert Haynesworth? (I saw him on a list, why not mention him) 3-4 OLB - Calvin Pace, Shaun MerrimanCB - Captain Munnerlyn, Cedric Griffin, Marcus Trufant, Kyle ArringtonSafety - Yeremiah Bell, Jim Leonhard, Patrick Chung, Craig Dahl, Madeiu Williams

Jason Jones is not a NT 6-5 275. Okoye would be a poor fit for a 3-4. Seymour has never played NT. I could go on, but I hope the scouting Dept isn't using this list

 

[JetMaxx]

I understand your point, and this may be changed dramatically before the draft depending on which free agents we sign. With that being said, I hope they select the best player available on their board for every selection.I prefer cheap, "at least we have every position filled", free agent acquisitions. Anyway, here's a list of the "type" of guys I think we can/should acquire. I'm not exactly sure how much each of these guys would command, but I'd like to see them keep prices low and get "need" positions filled with bodies at the least before the draft so we can pick best player available. Feel free to rip any/all of this apart. 3-4 NT - Ricky Jean-Francois, Jason Jones, Richard Seymour, Casey Hampton, Desmond Bryant, Shaun Cody, Isaac Sopoaga3-4 DE - Alan Branch, Amobi Okoye, Albert Haynesworth? (I saw him on a list, why not mention him) 3-4 OLB - Calvin Pace, Shaun MerrimanCB - Captain Munnerlyn, Cedric Griffin, Marcus Trufant, Kyle ArringtonSafety - Yeremiah Bell, Jim Leonhard, Patrick Chung, Craig Dahl, Madeiu Williams

Jason Jones is not a NT 6-5 275. Okoye would be a poor fit for a 3-4. Seymour has never played NT. I could go on, but I hope the scouting Dept isn't using this list

 

[Thunderlips]

@SheilKapadia: Brandon Graham tells @Tim_McManus he's shedding weight for switch to OLB, working out w/LaMarr Woodley. http://t.co/BWD0g1Q6IP

I'm actually optimistic about Graham this year. I think this is the position he should have been playing and is most natural for him (which is why the Eagles moving up to grab him made no sense at all). I don't see Cole fitting in though. I think we need to try to move him for a 3rd if we can to a 4-3 team in need of a pass rush. Maybe Jax.

FWIW, Ray Diddy on 610 has been saying since they drafted him that Graham wouldn't be much of an impact in a 4/3 but once he left the Eagles and went to a 3/4...he'd excel.He also thinks Cole is gone.

 

[Insein]

@SheilKapadia: Brandon Graham tells @Tim_McManus he's shedding weight for switch to OLB, working out w/LaMarr Woodley. http://t.co/BWD0g1Q6IP

I'm actually optimistic about Graham this year. I think this is the position he should have been playing and is most natural for him (which is why the Eagles moving up to grab him made no sense at all). I don't see Cole fitting in though. I think we need to try to move him for a 3rd if we can to a 4-3 team in need of a pass rush. Maybe Jax.

FWIW, Ray Diddy on 610 has been saying since they drafted him that Graham wouldn't be much of an impact in a 4/3 but once he left the Eagles and went to a 3/4...he'd excel.He also thinks Cole is gone.

Ray is a smart man.

 

[Ash]

Kind of frustrating not to have seen Nnamdi released yet. Both Jenkins and Patterson had more to offer the team this year. What are they waiting for? Will not be happy if he's on the field again this year.

 

[Bigboy10182000]

Kind of frustrating not to have seen Nnamdi released yet. Both Jenkins and Patterson had more to offer the team this year. What are they waiting for? Will not be happy if he's on the field again this year.

They have until the 12th to make a decision on him. I'm assuming they're trying to renegotiate his deal but what incentive would Nnammdi have to do that?

 

[JAA]

I understand your point, and this may be changed dramatically before the draft depending on which free agents we sign. With that being said, I hope they select the best player available on their board for every selection.I prefer cheap, "at least we have every position filled", free agent acquisitions. Anyway, here's a list of the "type" of guys I think we can/should acquire. I'm not exactly sure how much each of these guys would command, but I'd like to see them keep prices low and get "need" positions filled with bodies at the least before the draft so we can pick best player available. Feel free to rip any/all of this apart. 3-4 NT - Ricky Jean-Francois, Jason Jones, Richard Seymour, Casey Hampton, Desmond Bryant, Shaun Cody, Isaac Sopoaga3-4 DE - Alan Branch, Amobi Okoye, Albert Haynesworth? (I saw him on a list, why not mention him) 3-4 OLB - Calvin Pace, Shaun MerrimanCB - Captain Munnerlyn, Cedric Griffin, Marcus Trufant, Kyle ArringtonSafety - Yeremiah Bell, Jim Leonhard, Patrick Chung, Craig Dahl, Madeiu Williams

... I might reply to this post multiple times, but this is the first.I like the Seymour thought. He is now an above average journeyman 3 technique DE. I dont know anything about his lockerroom presence, but he has made his money and I would imagine getting out of the Oak organization and working with someone fresh like Kelly would be a nice change.

 

[JAA]

I considered adding this to my previous post.Why is everyone dismissing Trent Cole?I have to believe his ability compares to TSuggs, Bruce Irvin, and Chris Clemmons. Why doesnt he have their ability? Why cant he do what they do?Trent Cole has been hungry since the day he stepped into the league. Who are we to doubt what he is capable of? He switched to all the formations we asked him to. I havnt heard any mouth from him on any unhappiness. Sounds like exactly like someone Chip Kelly wants on his roster.Tell me why Cole cant be successful with whatever the Eagles run defensively?

 

[Insein]

I considered adding this to my previous post.Why is everyone dismissing Trent Cole?I have to believe his ability compares to TSuggs, Bruce Irvin, and Chris Clemmons. Why doesnt he have their ability? Why cant he do what they do?Trent Cole has been hungry since the day he stepped into the league. Who are we to doubt what he is capable of? He switched to all the formations we asked him to. I havnt heard any mouth from him on any unhappiness. Sounds like exactly like someone Chip Kelly wants on his roster.Tell me why Cole cant be successful with whatever the Eagles run defensively?

I'm not saying he can't but he has never played in a 3-4. He's too small to be a DE in a 3-4. He's never had to stand up in his pro career (going on 8th year). Not sure about college but I'm pretty sure he never did it there either. He's also going to be 31 during next season. He's a very good 4-3 DE still in this league though. Since he is getting up there in age but still has value, I'd move him for a 2nd or 3rd rounder to a team that needs a guy like him. Just a normal rebuilding move IMO.

 

[Nagle2998]

I considered adding this to my previous post.Why is everyone dismissing Trent Cole?I have to believe his ability compares to TSuggs, Bruce Irvin, and Chris Clemmons. Why doesnt he have their ability? Why cant he do what they do?Trent Cole has been hungry since the day he stepped into the league. Who are we to doubt what he is capable of? He switched to all the formations we asked him to. I havnt heard any mouth from him on any unhappiness. Sounds like exactly like someone Chip Kelly wants on his roster.Tell me why Cole cant be successful with whatever the Eagles run defensively?

I like Trent but like the previous poster said he isn't getting younger and as good as he was he isn't a speed DE. I just don't think he has the skills to be a 3-4 OLB and no way he is strong enough to be a 3-4 DE. Now from reports I read the Eagles plan to use Cole just like before a pure pass rusher and won't let him fall back into coverage like some 3-4 OLB do.

 

[Insein]

I considered adding this to my previous post.Why is everyone dismissing Trent Cole?I have to believe his ability compares to TSuggs, Bruce Irvin, and Chris Clemmons. Why doesnt he have their ability? Why cant he do what they do?Trent Cole has been hungry since the day he stepped into the league. Who are we to doubt what he is capable of? He switched to all the formations we asked him to. I havnt heard any mouth from him on any unhappiness. Sounds like exactly like someone Chip Kelly wants on his roster.Tell me why Cole cant be successful with whatever the Eagles run defensively?

I like Trent but like the previous poster said he isn't getting younger and as good as he was he isn't a speed DE. I just don't think he has the skills to be a 3-4 OLB and no way he is strong enough to be a 3-4 DE. Now from reports I read the Eagles plan to use Cole just like before a pure pass rusher and won't let him fall back into coverage like some 3-4 OLB do.

I think that becomes too predictable though. Whenever teams see Cole in there, they will target that side of the field knowing that there's a greater chance that Cole is not going to fall back in coverage leaving a space open before the ILB can get there.

 

[Ash]

I considered adding this to my previous post.Why is everyone dismissing Trent Cole?I have to believe his ability compares to TSuggs, Bruce Irvin, and Chris Clemmons. Why doesnt he have their ability? Why cant he do what they do?Trent Cole has been hungry since the day he stepped into the league. Who are we to doubt what he is capable of? He switched to all the formations we asked him to. I havnt heard any mouth from him on any unhappiness. Sounds like exactly like someone Chip Kelly wants on his roster.Tell me why Cole cant be successful with whatever the Eagles run defensively?

I'm not dismissing Cole, but I like probably most am thinking about how the team looks over the next 2-3 years coming back to respectability and I don't see Cole sticking around that long. The reason I don't have high hopes for him to reach his form from 2007-11 is his production last year was not very good. The effort etc was there as it always is with him, but he just couldn't finish. When that happens to a 30yo player, the odds of him bouncing back are not great. Might happen, but I'm guessing it won't, not all the way anyway. Depending on what next year's D looks like, there's a chance they (like the Texans 3-4) just rush their outside guys all the time in the base D, and use a 4-2-5 nickel about half the time. Cole could play in that kind of base D as an OLB, although one theory on his lack of production last year is that he does better rushing from closer in rather than an alignment probably similar to the Wide 9 in terms of where he'd line up.More likely I think Cole could play LDE in a 4 man nickel front and still be on the field half the time. Depends if that's the path they take in transitioning to whatever the new defense will be. Cole's been one of my favourite Eagles for years and I'd like to see him bounce back, but I suspect it will probably be as a role player for a year then we'll see.

 

[Bigboy10182000]

I learn a lot here by listening a lot more than I post, but wondering what you guys think about the free agents mentioned in this article:My linkAnyone we realistically might go after?

I REALLY think we would have to make a play for Smith and/ or Goldston if they were to hit the market.I'd say it's maybe for Avril, Bennett or Ellerbe. I think a guy like Ricky Jean Francois makes more sense for our DL.The article mentions a lot of guards but I'm thinking they go OT and kick Herremans back inside but I wouldnt be mad if they tried for Levitre.I also would only want Cook if he came at a very resonable price but I dont see that happening with the money they have tied up in CelekI wouldnt mind that Honeybadger returning some kicks for us though

The one free agent I want is Andre Smith he is still young and has been one of the better RT the last two years. I agree with moving Herremans back inside I think he can play either tackle spot but he he is a much better OG. I don't want any free agents over 28 the Eagles have the money to be picky and they shouldn't try to fix everything in one year.

@caplannfl: Kelly prefers lighter OLs if possible. RT @lordbourbon: @caplannfl Andre Smith for the Eagles?

 

[Bigboy10182000]

Today is the last day for franchise tags

 

[Bigboy10182000]

The Eagles’ Safety Options In Free AgencyPosted by Sheil Kapadia on March 4, 2013 at 11:40 am |Howie Roseman offered an honest assessment earlier this offseason when asked about the Eagles’ struggles in identifying talent at the safety position.“To me, that’s the hardest position to evaluate in college football is safeties,” Roseman said. “The guys that used to be the most explosive athletes and were playing in the back end, they’re going to play corner because they feel like maybe at corner, they can play 10 years. You look at the franchise tag numbers, the corner position is higher than the safety position. That is going to be the constant struggle. When you talk to people around the league, it’s hard to find safeties.”The Eagles have tried and failed to fill the void left by Brian Dawkins for four seasons, bringing in guys like Nate Allen, Jaiquawn Jarrett and Jarrad Page, to name a few. Now they face another offseason looking for safety help.The truth is, the position is changing. Teams are now looking for hybrid-type players who can line up opposite tight ends and slot receivers, play centerfield when necessary and also sneak down in the box to play the run (or the read option).Take a glance at “offseason needs” articles around the league, and you’re going to see plenty of teams in the market for safety help.For the Eagles, the search continues next week with the start of the free agency period (March 12). Currently on the roster are Allen, Kurt Coleman and David Sims. Allen, a second-round pick in 2010, has been a disappointment. Counting on him to take some kind of leap into a quality starter would be a mistake. The plan should be to keep him in the mix and see if he surprises.Coleman has been given several opportunities to seize a starting job, but he is physically limited and would be better utilized in a backup role. And Sims has one career start under his belt. Colt Anderson, meanwhile, is a restricted free agent. He’s an elite special teams player, but not the answer to the team’s safety woes.The good news is that the Eagles will have options to fill their needs in free agency and the draft. This year’s group of safety prospects is considered deep and talented. But as we’ve seen in years past, going into the draft searching for specific needs can lead to mistakes.And this is not an either/or situation. The Eagles should look to identify young safety talent in free agency and address the position if possible in the draft. As we wrote about on Sunday, the Birds are in good cap shape and could be in position to take advantage of a market where the supply might very well out-weigh the demand.NFL.com’s Gregg Rosenthal has a list out of the top 85 free agents, and it contains eight safeties (not including Buffalo’s Jairus Byrd, who was franchised). Below is a breakdown.Age Ht. Wt. Games StartedDashon Goldson, SF 28 6-2 200 64William Moore, ATL 27 6-0 221 38Ed Reed, BAL 34 5-11 205 159Glover Quin, HOU 27 6-0 207 60Kenny Phillips, NYG 26 6-2 217 41LaRon Landry, NYJ 28 6-0 220 79Louis Delmas, DET 25 5-11 202 49Charles Woodson, GB 36 6-1 202 203Dashon Goldson – He’s the guy readers seem to be asking about the most, and it’s easy to understand why. Goldson has made the Pro Bowl in each of the past two seasons, is durable (has made 62 of a possible 64 starts the past four seasons) and is a versatile play-maker (nine interceptions, two forced fumbles the past two seasons).He’ll turn 29 in September. That’s not exactly old, but teams will have to determine how many more years of top-level production Goldson has in him. That’s where the Eagles should have an advantage with Tom Gamble, who spent seven years in the 49ers’ front office.Given the league-wide need at safety, the market for Goldson should be competitive, and he could be in line for a big pay-day. One NFL team official told Tyler Dunne of the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel that Goldson is looking for $8 million per season. The 49ers have until 4 p.m. today to use the franchise tag on Goldson for the second consecutive year, but according to multiple reports, they’re not going to go that route.William Moore – He’s been a three-year starter for the Falcons and has 11 interceptions to go along with five forced fumbles the past three seasons. Moore ran a 4.51 at the Combine back in 2009. As a point of reference, only three safeties this year had a faster time.The issue with Moore has been health. He’s missed eight games the past two seasons – four in 2012 because of a hamstring injury. The Falcons could still choose to tag him. Atlanta also recently cut ties with several veterans and could look to lock up Moore to a long-term deal.Ed Reed – Given his age and the state of the Eagles, I don’t see this as a fit for either side.Charles Woodson – Ditto.Glover Quin – Like Moore, he could still get the tag. A four-year starter, he hasn’t missed a game since 2009 (his rookie season). Quin made the switch from cornerback to safety before the 2011 season, so there’s reason to believe he still has plenty of room for improvement at his new position. Given the way the league is trending, the ability to cover is at the top of the list of requirements for safeties, which makes Quin’s background intriguing. The Battle Red Blog published a good post about Quin’s versatility too, pointing to his 10-tackle performance against the Vikings in which Adrian Peterson averaged just 3.4 yards per carry.Kenny Phillips – Eagles fans are familiar with Phillips, a first-round pick by the Giants in 2008. Age and production are non-issues with Phillips. The key is his health. He battled an MCL injury last season and only played in seven games. If healthy, he figures to have great upside, but that appears to be a serious if at this point.LaRon Landry – Coming off an Achilles’ injury in 2011, Landry got a one-year “prove it” deal from the Jets. After playing in just 17 games his final two years with the Redskins, Landry played in all 16 in 2012 and made his first Pro Bowl, coming up with a pair of interceptions and four forced fumbles. Considering he’s 28 and coming off his first 16-game season since 2008, Landry could be looking to cash in.Louis Delmas - Speaking of “prove it” deals, that’s what Delmas might have to settle for. If health wasn’t a concern, the Lions would almost definitely lock Delmas up to a long-term deal. The former second-round pick (2009) turns 26 in April and is productive when on the field, but knee injuries have been an issue. Delmas has missed 13 of 32 games the last two seasons. Interested teams will have to do their due diligence on him medically, and while the upside is intriguing, counting on Delmas as a starting safety would carry quite a bit of risk.***A few other names on the marketatrick Chung (Patriots) – His specialty is playing the run, but Chung has been unable to stay healthy, having missed 12 games the past two seasons.Chris Clemons (Dolphins) – The 27-year-old started 16 games for Miami last year. At 6-0, 208 pounds, he ran a 4.41 coming out of Clemson in 2009 and was drafted in the fifth round.Follow Sheil Kapadia on Twitter and e-mail him at skapadia@phillymag.com.

 

[Bigboy10182000]

Chiefs sign Bowe and tag Albert....Maybe they dont take Joeckel now?

 

[Bigboy10182000]

Top 85 free agents: Mike Wallace heads best available

 

[babydemon90]

would love us to bring in S William Moore....