** Official ** Eagles 2008 Thread (1 Viewer)

[Jeff Pasquino]

Please, bring in Pats comparisons...... To your point, I have LBs as Mayo / Connor on the "consensus rank" list, so I don't know much about Lofton. I think Mayo could immediately come in and compete for a starting spot - but he was unavailable.As for TE - yes there was an opportunity to bring one in. I agree with Woodrow that Philly should have. Losing Bennett - to Dallas, no less - stings. But how do you exactly justify picking a TE when we have other glaring needs? After the first 5 or so TEs were gone, LJ Smith and Celek - a draft pick Philly isn't giving up on from 2007 - are better than what was available.I'd have to review who was available in Round 4 (when the Eagles got LB happy for no apparent reason) and see if TE was a better option. Odds are it was and they should have brought one in to push Smith.I don't see the Eagles tinkering too much with the OL. They could try and improve, but overall they're drafting for the future as their line consistenty grades as one of the better ones (when Justice doesn't start).Kenny Philips might be better than Mikell, and I thought that DuJuan Jackson should have been picked. That was the biggest draft mistake, IMHO. Taking Bryan Smith (???) in Round 3 with Jackson available was a blunder that set the tone for disappointment for Day 2. Jermichael Finley would have been better there.So maybe I should rescind the 100%-ness to saying that no starter jobs were available. Competition is key and they should have looked to push at TE, S, and WR. LB and OL is tougher for rookies to crack in Philly - at least it has been under Reid.Lastly - I don't consider WR3 as a starter. Philly goes 2 WR for most starts so that's how I look at it. However, if you do that, TE2 becomes a bigger factor and again the Eagles should have addressed the depth there. Overall I'm OK with how they did, but I'm not thrilled with just one WR and too many LBs. They are young at the position and have a 4th that is coming along as well in Togafau plus Boiman as a special teamer. Why did they feel the need to bring in 3 more?Competition at WR for not just the starters but Avant, Baskett and Greg Lewis should have been more of a priority. Same with TE1 and 2.

I just looked at the whole Philly roster. Although you are excited about your young LBers, I didnt see much dept there. You mentioned a LB that I hadnt heard because I think he hasnt seen the field and I'm not sure if Boiman is much more than a STer. I think they needed to get some more LBers for competition.I think the safety you were refering to was actually Dajuan Morgan and I thought for sure they were taking him in the 3rd.

Agreed on both counts. I'm not in love with Pago but some are. Morgan should have been drafted, and that's my biggest gripe.If Demps turns out as good, well, that's fine.

 

[Jeff Pasquino]

Nobody ever said the Eagles didn't have spots that could use upgrading, but there really aren't many starting spots obviously open.

There are great teams with more holes then the Eagles...but they also have more superstars covering the holes.

The Eagles have good, solid ballplayers in almost every position, but a lack of superstars. The weakest spots on the team (like WR) also happen to be the hardest positions to find rookie replacements in.

The Eagles system doesn't call for high profile LB's, but it's complicated enough to be hard on rookies. Only a true stud could start as a rookie there. The young LB's we have now are probably the best group we've had in years.

LJ Smith was considered an up and coming young TE just 12 months ago...but now he's a scrub that we HAD to find a replacement for early in this draft? I don't get that.

The only big ???? I have from this draft is why they took so many TE's, and didn't take another WR or two to challenge the WR depth a little better.

The Eagles didnt take any TE's.LJ did have pretty decent seasons in '05 and '06. He was horrendous last year though. If it was mostly injury then I guess the Eagles can feel ok about him.

I think he meant LBs???

 

[renesauz]

Meant LB's...fixed.

After reading Pat's roster post though, LB competition is welcome...I just would have rather they took multiple WR's looking for that gem.

 

[Jason Wood]

Joe Mays - not even in my guide.....

Of 425+ players.

Don't feel bad, he wasn't on ESPN Insider's guide either.

Jason,I think you really went into this draft with unrealistic expectations. I have seen posts from you about the 12 picks they had feeling that they were going to be big movers and shakers in this draft.

I kept trying to tell you that 4 of those picks were compensatory picks in the 6th round or later that couldnt be moved.

Trevor Laws will immediately become part of a nice 3 man DT rotation with Patterson and Bunkley.

Desean Jackson is the returner you desparately need and is a much more explosive receiver than Avant, Baskett or any other non starting receiver on that roster.

They got both of the above players and added a #1 for next year. Excellent first couple of rounds for the Eagles.

I dont understand the 3rd round pick because I know nothing about that kid.

Mike McGlynn in the 4th round is an excellent pick.

I really like Quentin Demps in the 4th. I think he is already better than Sean Considine.

The rest of the draft is probably meh for them but that was your problem in the first place thinking that the Eagles were going to get anything of substance after the 4th round.

The Birds come out of the draft with DJ, Laws, Demps, McGlynn who should contribute / add depth. They get Lorenzo Booker for ST depth. As pointed out by JP, they did not have any starter openings this year, and they added a few good quality players, as well as adding a 1st round pick next year. The rest of the picks were probably like throwing darts at a dartboard, pick some projects and see who sticks.

Anyone who expected anything more from this draft is being unrealistic. I don't have a problem at all with Lito still being on the team. Samuel/Lito/Brown/Dawk would be one hell of a secondary if that is what they're going to do.

I really like what the Eagles have done in the draft. However, the mindset that the Eagles are so loaded that they dont have any starter openings is a mindset that has developed because Andy Reid doesnt play his rookies.1. Jamaal Jackson took a step back last year. He is an average center.

2. Herremens did not have a very good year at guard last year. I think he is below average and would expect Jean-Gillis to take his position unless he is another wasted draft pick. This should be the year Jean-Gillis breaks the starting lineup.

3. Fred Davis and John Carlson and probably some others are better TE's than LJ Smith.

4. I think the #3 WR spot is weak with Avant. I think DJ is much better than Avant if you consider that a starting position.

5. I like the DLine.

6. The LB crew is young and unaccomplished. Jared Mayo and Curtis Lofton are both better than anybody you currently have. (I know you werent in position to get Mayo).

7. Best set of CB's in the league (If Pacman is reinstated, Dallas is very close. Newman, Pacman and Mike Jenkins)

8. Kenny Phillips is better than Quentin Mikell.

There were a number of players, IMO, that the Eagles could have drafted to compete for starting positions.

The Patriots are loaded, right?

They drafted a starting ILB, a CB to compete for a starting position, and a rotational OLB that will play quite a bit. Do you think the Patriots had more holes to fill on their team than the Eagles?

I too have issues with the idea that Philadelphia had no starting spots open in 2008. Last time I checked, we didn't have 22 Pro Bowlers and, ergo, there are ALWAYS spots open.Here are a number of positions where the starting roles are are not, or shouldn't be set in stone as training camp approaches...

WR2/WR3...Reggie Brown is by no means good enough to be locked in as a starter, and neither Avant nor Baskett would be on most championship caliber rosters

FB...Jason Davis vs. Dan Klecko. There are no winners here.

RB2...If Lorenzo Booker is going to see playing time, a rookie could've made an impact behind Westbrook

LG...Herremans had a down season last year, and may lose his job/roster spot depending on what happens in camp

C...Jamaal Jackson was terrible last year, a major problem spot

LDE...Juqua Thomas Parker is one of the worst projected starting ends in our division

SLB...Gocong is going to have a chance to prove his value, but let's not pretend that a stud OLB wouldn't have been welcome competition and couldn't have beaten him out for a job in an open camp competition

SS...Quentin Mikell only looks good against the alternative, Sean Considine. Mikell is by no means irreplaceable

FS...Brian Dawkins isn't going to lose PT to a rookie, but we could've/should've drafted an impact safety earlier to groom; Dawkins is a fraction of what he used to be

P...Sav Rocca sucks

PK...David Akers isn't the stud we remember from a few years ago

 

[Pat Patriot]

Joe Mays - not even in my guide.....

Of 425+ players.

Don't feel bad, he wasn't on ESPN Insider's guide either.

Jason,I think you really went into this draft with unrealistic expectations. I have seen posts from you about the 12 picks they had feeling that they were going to be big movers and shakers in this draft.

I kept trying to tell you that 4 of those picks were compensatory picks in the 6th round or later that couldnt be moved.

Trevor Laws will immediately become part of a nice 3 man DT rotation with Patterson and Bunkley.

Desean Jackson is the returner you desparately need and is a much more explosive receiver than Avant, Baskett or any other non starting receiver on that roster.

They got both of the above players and added a #1 for next year. Excellent first couple of rounds for the Eagles.

I dont understand the 3rd round pick because I know nothing about that kid.

Mike McGlynn in the 4th round is an excellent pick.

I really like Quentin Demps in the 4th. I think he is already better than Sean Considine.

The rest of the draft is probably meh for them but that was your problem in the first place thinking that the Eagles were going to get anything of substance after the 4th round.

The Birds come out of the draft with DJ, Laws, Demps, McGlynn who should contribute / add depth. They get Lorenzo Booker for ST depth. As pointed out by JP, they did not have any starter openings this year, and they added a few good quality players, as well as adding a 1st round pick next year. The rest of the picks were probably like throwing darts at a dartboard, pick some projects and see who sticks.

Anyone who expected anything more from this draft is being unrealistic. I don't have a problem at all with Lito still being on the team. Samuel/Lito/Brown/Dawk would be one hell of a secondary if that is what they're going to do.

I really like what the Eagles have done in the draft. However, the mindset that the Eagles are so loaded that they dont have any starter openings is a mindset that has developed because Andy Reid doesnt play his rookies.1. Jamaal Jackson took a step back last year. He is an average center.

2. Herremens did not have a very good year at guard last year. I think he is below average and would expect Jean-Gillis to take his position unless he is another wasted draft pick. This should be the year Jean-Gillis breaks the starting lineup.

3. Fred Davis and John Carlson and probably some others are better TE's than LJ Smith.

4. I think the #3 WR spot is weak with Avant. I think DJ is much better than Avant if you consider that a starting position.

5. I like the DLine.

6. The LB crew is young and unaccomplished. Jared Mayo and Curtis Lofton are both better than anybody you currently have. (I know you werent in position to get Mayo).

7. Best set of CB's in the league (If Pacman is reinstated, Dallas is very close. Newman, Pacman and Mike Jenkins)

8. Kenny Phillips is better than Quentin Mikell.

There were a number of players, IMO, that the Eagles could have drafted to compete for starting positions.

The Patriots are loaded, right?

They drafted a starting ILB, a CB to compete for a starting position, and a rotational OLB that will play quite a bit. Do you think the Patriots had more holes to fill on their team than the Eagles?

I too have issues with the idea that Philadelphia had no starting spots open in 2008. Last time I checked, we didn't have 22 Pro Bowlers and, ergo, there are ALWAYS spots open.Here are a number of positions where the starting roles are are not, or shouldn't be set in stone as training camp approaches...

WR2/WR3...Reggie Brown is by no means good enough to be locked in as a starter, and neither Avant nor Baskett would be on most championship caliber rosters

FB...Jason Davis vs. Dan Klecko. There are no winners here.

RB2...If Lorenzo Booker is going to see playing time, a rookie could've made an impact behind Westbrook

LG...Herremans had a down season last year, and may lose his job/roster spot depending on what happens in camp

C...Jamaal Jackson was terrible last year, a major problem spot

LDE...Juqua Thomas Parker is one of the worst projected starting ends in our division

SLB...Gocong is going to have a chance to prove his value, but let's not pretend that a stud OLB wouldn't have been welcome competition and couldn't have beaten him out for a job in an open camp competition

SS...Quentin Mikell only looks good against the alternative, Sean Considine. Mikell is by no means irreplaceable

FS...Brian Dawkins isn't going to lose PT to a rookie, but we could've/should've drafted an impact safety earlier to groom; Dawkins is a fraction of what he used to be

P...Sav Rocca sucks

PK...David Akers isn't the stud we remember from a few years ago

WOW. Do you hate your team?I like Jaqua Thomas. Nobody on the roster is capable of beating out Reggie Brown. There should be some camp competition but probably not as much as you would like.

 

[Domination]

Joe Mays - not even in my guide.....

Of 425+ players.

Don't feel bad, he wasn't on ESPN Insider's guide either.

Jason,I think you really went into this draft with unrealistic expectations. I have seen posts from you about the 12 picks they had feeling that they were going to be big movers and shakers in this draft.

I kept trying to tell you that 4 of those picks were compensatory picks in the 6th round or later that couldnt be moved.

Trevor Laws will immediately become part of a nice 3 man DT rotation with Patterson and Bunkley.

Desean Jackson is the returner you desparately need and is a much more explosive receiver than Avant, Baskett or any other non starting receiver on that roster.

They got both of the above players and added a #1 for next year. Excellent first couple of rounds for the Eagles.

I dont understand the 3rd round pick because I know nothing about that kid.

Mike McGlynn in the 4th round is an excellent pick.

I really like Quentin Demps in the 4th. I think he is already better than Sean Considine.

The rest of the draft is probably meh for them but that was your problem in the first place thinking that the Eagles were going to get anything of substance after the 4th round.

The Birds come out of the draft with DJ, Laws, Demps, McGlynn who should contribute / add depth. They get Lorenzo Booker for ST depth. As pointed out by JP, they did not have any starter openings this year, and they added a few good quality players, as well as adding a 1st round pick next year. The rest of the picks were probably like throwing darts at a dartboard, pick some projects and see who sticks.

Anyone who expected anything more from this draft is being unrealistic. I don't have a problem at all with Lito still being on the team. Samuel/Lito/Brown/Dawk would be one hell of a secondary if that is what they're going to do.

I really like what the Eagles have done in the draft. However, the mindset that the Eagles are so loaded that they dont have any starter openings is a mindset that has developed because Andy Reid doesnt play his rookies.1. Jamaal Jackson took a step back last year. He is an average center.

2. Herremens did not have a very good year at guard last year. I think he is below average and would expect Jean-Gillis to take his position unless he is another wasted draft pick. This should be the year Jean-Gillis breaks the starting lineup.

3. Fred Davis and John Carlson and probably some others are better TE's than LJ Smith.

4. I think the #3 WR spot is weak with Avant. I think DJ is much better than Avant if you consider that a starting position.

5. I like the DLine.

6. The LB crew is young and unaccomplished. Jared Mayo and Curtis Lofton are both better than anybody you currently have. (I know you werent in position to get Mayo).

7. Best set of CB's in the league (If Pacman is reinstated, Dallas is very close. Newman, Pacman and Mike Jenkins)

8. Kenny Phillips is better than Quentin Mikell.

There were a number of players, IMO, that the Eagles could have drafted to compete for starting positions.

The Patriots are loaded, right?

They drafted a starting ILB, a CB to compete for a starting position, and a rotational OLB that will play quite a bit. Do you think the Patriots had more holes to fill on their team than the Eagles?

I too have issues with the idea that Philadelphia had no starting spots open in 2008. Last time I checked, we didn't have 22 Pro Bowlers and, ergo, there are ALWAYS spots open.Here are a number of positions where the starting roles are are not, or shouldn't be set in stone as training camp approaches...

WR2/WR3...Reggie Brown is by no means good enough to be locked in as a starter, and neither Avant nor Baskett would be on most championship caliber rosters

FB...Jason Davis vs. Dan Klecko. There are no winners here.

RB2...If Lorenzo Booker is going to see playing time, a rookie could've made an impact behind Westbrook

LG...Herremans had a down season last year, and may lose his job/roster spot depending on what happens in camp

C...Jamaal Jackson was terrible last year, a major problem spot

LDE...Juqua Thomas Parker is one of the worst projected starting ends in our division

SLB...Gocong is going to have a chance to prove his value, but let's not pretend that a stud OLB wouldn't have been welcome competition and couldn't have beaten him out for a job in an open camp competition

SS...Quentin Mikell only looks good against the alternative, Sean Considine. Mikell is by no means irreplaceable

FS...Brian Dawkins isn't going to lose PT to a rookie, but we could've/should've drafted an impact safety earlier to groom; Dawkins is a fraction of what he used to be

P...Sav Rocca sucks

PK...David Akers isn't the stud we remember from a few years ago

I think that people are overvaluing the players on this team. I like the young LBs, and the fact that we have some young guys drafted in the last few drafts that might be able to step in this year. But my problem is that they didn't go after a impact player. They went after guys that might be able to help in certain situations, but not a stud who could actually change the outcome of a game.

 

[BuddyKnuckles]

I think that people are overvaluing the players on this team. I like the young LBs, and the fact that we have some young guys drafted in the last few drafts that might be able to step in this year. But my problem is that they didn't go after a impact player. They went after guys that might be able to help in certain situations, but not a stud who could actually change the outcome of a game.

Granted you can never have too many game changers. But, do you consider McNabb, Westy, Asante, and Sheldon to be impact players? Maybe even Dawk on his good days still? If DJ is half the game breaker on ST that they are saying, then he is an impact player too. How many impact players or game changers do you see in the draft this year? Even if you include the top 10, i just dont see that many. Over-valuing or not, i think its unrealistic to have expected much more out of this draft (other than a trade for a stud WR)

 

[eagles2007]

yeah, it sure would be nice to draft someone to get really excited about.

i was really pissed when the indiana WR went 2 picks before the eagles were set to pick. at 6-7, i wanted our own version of plaxico burress.

i like the desean jackson pick. just put him back there on punts and kickoffs. i would like to see someone in this spot who doesn't get caught from behind.

as for drafting so many LBs, seems like a pretty good position to add STers.

 

[Jason Wood]

Joe Mays - not even in my guide.....

Of 425+ players.

Don't feel bad, he wasn't on ESPN Insider's guide either.

Jason,I think you really went into this draft with unrealistic expectations. I have seen posts from you about the 12 picks they had feeling that they were going to be big movers and shakers in this draft.

I kept trying to tell you that 4 of those picks were compensatory picks in the 6th round or later that couldnt be moved.

Trevor Laws will immediately become part of a nice 3 man DT rotation with Patterson and Bunkley.

Desean Jackson is the returner you desparately need and is a much more explosive receiver than Avant, Baskett or any other non starting receiver on that roster.

They got both of the above players and added a #1 for next year. Excellent first couple of rounds for the Eagles.

I dont understand the 3rd round pick because I know nothing about that kid.

Mike McGlynn in the 4th round is an excellent pick.

I really like Quentin Demps in the 4th. I think he is already better than Sean Considine.

The rest of the draft is probably meh for them but that was your problem in the first place thinking that the Eagles were going to get anything of substance after the 4th round.

The Birds come out of the draft with DJ, Laws, Demps, McGlynn who should contribute / add depth. They get Lorenzo Booker for ST depth. As pointed out by JP, they did not have any starter openings this year, and they added a few good quality players, as well as adding a 1st round pick next year. The rest of the picks were probably like throwing darts at a dartboard, pick some projects and see who sticks.

Anyone who expected anything more from this draft is being unrealistic. I don't have a problem at all with Lito still being on the team. Samuel/Lito/Brown/Dawk would be one hell of a secondary if that is what they're going to do.

I really like what the Eagles have done in the draft. However, the mindset that the Eagles are so loaded that they dont have any starter openings is a mindset that has developed because Andy Reid doesnt play his rookies.1. Jamaal Jackson took a step back last year. He is an average center.

2. Herremens did not have a very good year at guard last year. I think he is below average and would expect Jean-Gillis to take his position unless he is another wasted draft pick. This should be the year Jean-Gillis breaks the starting lineup.

3. Fred Davis and John Carlson and probably some others are better TE's than LJ Smith.

4. I think the #3 WR spot is weak with Avant. I think DJ is much better than Avant if you consider that a starting position.

5. I like the DLine.

6. The LB crew is young and unaccomplished. Jared Mayo and Curtis Lofton are both better than anybody you currently have. (I know you werent in position to get Mayo).

7. Best set of CB's in the league (If Pacman is reinstated, Dallas is very close. Newman, Pacman and Mike Jenkins)

8. Kenny Phillips is better than Quentin Mikell.

There were a number of players, IMO, that the Eagles could have drafted to compete for starting positions.

The Patriots are loaded, right?

They drafted a starting ILB, a CB to compete for a starting position, and a rotational OLB that will play quite a bit. Do you think the Patriots had more holes to fill on their team than the Eagles?

I too have issues with the idea that Philadelphia had no starting spots open in 2008. Last time I checked, we didn't have 22 Pro Bowlers and, ergo, there are ALWAYS spots open.Here are a number of positions where the starting roles are are not, or shouldn't be set in stone as training camp approaches...

WR2/WR3...Reggie Brown is by no means good enough to be locked in as a starter, and neither Avant nor Baskett would be on most championship caliber rosters

FB...Jason Davis vs. Dan Klecko. There are no winners here.

RB2...If Lorenzo Booker is going to see playing time, a rookie could've made an impact behind Westbrook

LG...Herremans had a down season last year, and may lose his job/roster spot depending on what happens in camp

C...Jamaal Jackson was terrible last year, a major problem spot

LDE...Juqua Thomas Parker is one of the worst projected starting ends in our division

SLB...Gocong is going to have a chance to prove his value, but let's not pretend that a stud OLB wouldn't have been welcome competition and couldn't have beaten him out for a job in an open camp competition

SS...Quentin Mikell only looks good against the alternative, Sean Considine. Mikell is by no means irreplaceable

FS...Brian Dawkins isn't going to lose PT to a rookie, but we could've/should've drafted an impact safety earlier to groom; Dawkins is a fraction of what he used to be

P...Sav Rocca sucks

PK...David Akers isn't the stud we remember from a few years ago

WOW. Do you hate your team?I like Jaqua Thomas. Nobody on the roster is capable of beating out Reggie Brown. There should be some camp competition but probably not as much as you would like.

Hate my team? So I hate my team because I think they have guys who aren't elite at their positions in 12 spots? Seriously? The Eagles finished 8-8 last year and 4th in their division. Their best defender is past his prime, their two cornerstone tackles are on the wrong side of 30, and even the most ardent McNabb supporters (myself included) understand that this year has to be special if we plan on seeing Donnie Mac in an Eagles uniform beyond 2008. McNabb went out and publicly said the Eagles needed playmakers; and he wasn't wrong. I don't hate my team, I love them; like most fans, probably too much. As a result, I want them to move heaven and earth to improve at every position that they can. I'll still root my heart out for them each and every week; always have, always will. And I'll still hold out hope that they can make a run this year. But that doesn't mean I'm going to sit back and get excited for an offseason that management signaled it wanted/needed to do something ENORMOUS and have so far, not done it.

 

[Slider]

Most Eagle fans don't understand football and get all worked up over nothing. You can sign any star you want but D and Oline win Super Bowls. It's why TO, Moss, LT, SJax and so on don't have a ring. The Eagles are solidifying the D and beefing up the Oline. They now have 2 1sts and a CB to go after that star WR they want. They could trade McNabb next year and not miss a beat.

 

[Buddy Ball 2K3]

Joe Mays - not even in my guide.....

Of 425+ players.

Don't feel bad, he wasn't on ESPN Insider's guide either.

Jason,I think you really went into this draft with unrealistic expectations. I have seen posts from you about the 12 picks they had feeling that they were going to be big movers and shakers in this draft.

I kept trying to tell you that 4 of those picks were compensatory picks in the 6th round or later that couldnt be moved.

Trevor Laws will immediately become part of a nice 3 man DT rotation with Patterson and Bunkley.

Desean Jackson is the returner you desparately need and is a much more explosive receiver than Avant, Baskett or any other non starting receiver on that roster.

They got both of the above players and added a #1 for next year. Excellent first couple of rounds for the Eagles.

I dont understand the 3rd round pick because I know nothing about that kid.

Mike McGlynn in the 4th round is an excellent pick.

I really like Quentin Demps in the 4th. I think he is already better than Sean Considine.

The rest of the draft is probably meh for them but that was your problem in the first place thinking that the Eagles were going to get anything of substance after the 4th round.

The Birds come out of the draft with DJ, Laws, Demps, McGlynn who should contribute / add depth. They get Lorenzo Booker for ST depth. As pointed out by JP, they did not have any starter openings this year, and they added a few good quality players, as well as adding a 1st round pick next year. The rest of the picks were probably like throwing darts at a dartboard, pick some projects and see who sticks.

Anyone who expected anything more from this draft is being unrealistic. I don't have a problem at all with Lito still being on the team. Samuel/Lito/Brown/Dawk would be one hell of a secondary if that is what they're going to do.

I really like what the Eagles have done in the draft. However, the mindset that the Eagles are so loaded that they dont have any starter openings is a mindset that has developed because Andy Reid doesnt play his rookies.1. Jamaal Jackson took a step back last year. He is an average center.

2. Herremens did not have a very good year at guard last year. I think he is below average and would expect Jean-Gillis to take his position unless he is another wasted draft pick. This should be the year Jean-Gillis breaks the starting lineup.

3. Fred Davis and John Carlson and probably some others are better TE's than LJ Smith.

4. I think the #3 WR spot is weak with Avant. I think DJ is much better than Avant if you consider that a starting position.

5. I like the DLine.

6. The LB crew is young and unaccomplished. Jared Mayo and Curtis Lofton are both better than anybody you currently have. (I know you werent in position to get Mayo).

7. Best set of CB's in the league (If Pacman is reinstated, Dallas is very close. Newman, Pacman and Mike Jenkins)

8. Kenny Phillips is better than Quentin Mikell.

There were a number of players, IMO, that the Eagles could have drafted to compete for starting positions.

The Patriots are loaded, right?

They drafted a starting ILB, a CB to compete for a starting position, and a rotational OLB that will play quite a bit. Do you think the Patriots had more holes to fill on their team than the Eagles?

I too have issues with the idea that Philadelphia had no starting spots open in 2008. Last time I checked, we didn't have 22 Pro Bowlers and, ergo, there are ALWAYS spots open.Here are a number of positions where the starting roles are are not, or shouldn't be set in stone as training camp approaches...

WR2/WR3...Reggie Brown is by no means good enough to be locked in as a starter, and neither Avant nor Baskett would be on most championship caliber rosters

FB...Jason Davis vs. Dan Klecko. There are no winners here.

RB2...If Lorenzo Booker is going to see playing time, a rookie could've made an impact behind Westbrook

LG...Herremans had a down season last year, and may lose his job/roster spot depending on what happens in camp

C...Jamaal Jackson was terrible last year, a major problem spot

LDE...Juqua Thomas Parker is one of the worst projected starting ends in our division

SLB...Gocong is going to have a chance to prove his value, but let's not pretend that a stud OLB wouldn't have been welcome competition and couldn't have beaten him out for a job in an open camp competition

SS...Quentin Mikell only looks good against the alternative, Sean Considine. Mikell is by no means irreplaceable

FS...Brian Dawkins isn't going to lose PT to a rookie, but we could've/should've drafted an impact safety earlier to groom; Dawkins is a fraction of what he used to be

P...Sav Rocca sucks

PK...David Akers isn't the stud we remember from a few years ago

WOW. Do you hate your team?I like Jaqua Thomas. Nobody on the roster is capable of beating out Reggie Brown. There should be some camp competition but probably not as much as you would like.

Hate my team? So I hate my team because I think they have guys who aren't elite at their positions in 12 spots? Seriously? The Eagles finished 8-8 last year and 4th in their division. Their best defender is past his prime, their two cornerstone tackles are on the wrong side of 30, and even the most ardent McNabb supporters (myself included) understand that this year has to be special if we plan on seeing Donnie Mac in an Eagles uniform beyond 2008. McNabb went out and publicly said the Eagles needed playmakers; and he wasn't wrong. I don't hate my team, I love them; like most fans, probably too much. As a result, I want them to move heaven and earth to improve at every position that they can. I'll still root my heart out for them each and every week; always have, always will. And I'll still hold out hope that they can make a run this year. But that doesn't mean I'm going to sit back and get excited for an offseason that management signaled it wanted/needed to do something ENORMOUS and have so far, not done it.

Jason I really do not understand you at all.The sign the top free agent corner available who had more interceptions in the past two years then the entire team.

The draft the fastest WR and best kick returner in the draft which was quite possibly the biggest need for the team.

They get a 1st round pick in the 09 draft that could quite possibly be a top 10 pick

So what move do you think they should have made that they did not? What player could they have gotten that would have met your rather high expectations of an ENORMOUS off season?

 

[Game Time]

Plus they did everything they could to get Moss, Fitz, Boldin, Willaims, etc.....

 

[Deranged Hermit]

Most Eagle fans don't understand football and get all worked up over nothing. You can sign any star you want but D and Oline win Super Bowls. It's why TO, Moss, LT, SJax and so on don't have a ring. The Eagles are solidifying the D and beefing up the Oline. They now have 2 1sts and a CB to go after that star WR they want. They could trade McNabb next year and not miss a beat.

I very rarely agree with anything you say, but by you here.Your competition drafted 'star' WR's. So what? Last time I checked, the Eagles have the most talent in the secondary than any other team BAR NONE. Lito (yes, he still plays here), Asante, Dawkins and Sheldon Brown are as good as it gets.They picked up the best return guy in the draft who also just happens to be a player in a 'need' position for you, WR.They beefed up both sides of the ball on the line.They got a 1st round pick that could be a top 10 pick (Carolina is going to be bad this year). Do not be surprised if that 1st is leveraged into a trade for a certain disgruntled WR who can't be traded until June 1st.Really, except for the fans and LOCAL media, I haven't seen anyone who was objective rip the Eagles draft. Quite the contrary in fact, most loved it.

 

[LTsharks]

Joe Mays - not even in my guide.....

Of 425+ players.

Don't feel bad, he wasn't on ESPN Insider's guide either.

Jason,I think you really went into this draft with unrealistic expectations. I have seen posts from you about the 12 picks they had feeling that they were going to be big movers and shakers in this draft.

I kept trying to tell you that 4 of those picks were compensatory picks in the 6th round or later that couldnt be moved.

Trevor Laws will immediately become part of a nice 3 man DT rotation with Patterson and Bunkley.

Desean Jackson is the returner you desparately need and is a much more explosive receiver than Avant, Baskett or any other non starting receiver on that roster.

They got both of the above players and added a #1 for next year. Excellent first couple of rounds for the Eagles.

I dont understand the 3rd round pick because I know nothing about that kid.

Mike McGlynn in the 4th round is an excellent pick.

I really like Quentin Demps in the 4th. I think he is already better than Sean Considine.

The rest of the draft is probably meh for them but that was your problem in the first place thinking that the Eagles were going to get anything of substance after the 4th round.

The Birds come out of the draft with DJ, Laws, Demps, McGlynn who should contribute / add depth. They get Lorenzo Booker for ST depth. As pointed out by JP, they did not have any starter openings this year, and they added a few good quality players, as well as adding a 1st round pick next year. The rest of the picks were probably like throwing darts at a dartboard, pick some projects and see who sticks.

Anyone who expected anything more from this draft is being unrealistic. I don't have a problem at all with Lito still being on the team. Samuel/Lito/Brown/Dawk would be one hell of a secondary if that is what they're going to do.

I really like what the Eagles have done in the draft. However, the mindset that the Eagles are so loaded that they dont have any starter openings is a mindset that has developed because Andy Reid doesnt play his rookies.1. Jamaal Jackson took a step back last year. He is an average center.

2. Herremens did not have a very good year at guard last year. I think he is below average and would expect Jean-Gillis to take his position unless he is another wasted draft pick. This should be the year Jean-Gillis breaks the starting lineup.

3. Fred Davis and John Carlson and probably some others are better TE's than LJ Smith.

4. I think the #3 WR spot is weak with Avant. I think DJ is much better than Avant if you consider that a starting position.

5. I like the DLine.

6. The LB crew is young and unaccomplished. Jared Mayo and Curtis Lofton are both better than anybody you currently have. (I know you werent in position to get Mayo).

7. Best set of CB's in the league (If Pacman is reinstated, Dallas is very close. Newman, Pacman and Mike Jenkins)

8. Kenny Phillips is better than Quentin Mikell.

There were a number of players, IMO, that the Eagles could have drafted to compete for starting positions.

The Patriots are loaded, right?

They drafted a starting ILB, a CB to compete for a starting position, and a rotational OLB that will play quite a bit. Do you think the Patriots had more holes to fill on their team than the Eagles?

I too have issues with the idea that Philadelphia had no starting spots open in 2008. Last time I checked, we didn't have 22 Pro Bowlers and, ergo, there are ALWAYS spots open.Here are a number of positions where the starting roles are are not, or shouldn't be set in stone as training camp approaches...

WR2/WR3...Reggie Brown is by no means good enough to be locked in as a starter, and neither Avant nor Baskett would be on most championship caliber rosters

FB...Jason Davis vs. Dan Klecko. There are no winners here.

RB2...If Lorenzo Booker is going to see playing time, a rookie could've made an impact behind Westbrook

LG...Herremans had a down season last year, and may lose his job/roster spot depending on what happens in camp

C...Jamaal Jackson was terrible last year, a major problem spot

LDE...Juqua Thomas Parker is one of the worst projected starting ends in our division

SLB...Gocong is going to have a chance to prove his value, but let's not pretend that a stud OLB wouldn't have been welcome competition and couldn't have beaten him out for a job in an open camp competition

SS...Quentin Mikell only looks good against the alternative, Sean Considine. Mikell is by no means irreplaceable

FS...Brian Dawkins isn't going to lose PT to a rookie, but we could've/should've drafted an impact safety earlier to groom; Dawkins is a fraction of what he used to be

P...Sav Rocca sucks

PK...David Akers isn't the stud we remember from a few years ago

WOW. Do you hate your team?I like Jaqua Thomas. Nobody on the roster is capable of beating out Reggie Brown. There should be some camp competition but probably not as much as you would like.

Hate my team? So I hate my team because I think they have guys who aren't elite at their positions in 12 spots? Seriously? The Eagles finished 8-8 last year and 4th in their division. Their best defender is past his prime, their two cornerstone tackles are on the wrong side of 30, and even the most ardent McNabb supporters (myself included) understand that this year has to be special if we plan on seeing Donnie Mac in an Eagles uniform beyond 2008. McNabb went out and publicly said the Eagles needed playmakers; and he wasn't wrong. I don't hate my team, I love them; like most fans, probably too much. As a result, I want them to move heaven and earth to improve at every position that they can. I'll still root my heart out for them each and every week; always have, always will. And I'll still hold out hope that they can make a run this year. But that doesn't mean I'm going to sit back and get excited for an offseason that management signaled it wanted/needed to do something ENORMOUS and have so far, not done it.

Jason I really do not understand you at all.The sign the top free agent corner available who had more interceptions in the past two years then the entire team.

The draft the fastest WR and best kick returner in the draft which was quite possibly the biggest need for the team.

They get a 1st round pick in the 09 draft that could quite possibly be a top 10 pick

So what move do you think they should have made that they did not? What player could they have gotten that would have met your rather high expectations of an ENORMOUS off season?

The didn't get a stud veteran WR. If they had, everyone would be talking about what a great draft it was. I really do think it comes down to that one position for many Eagles fans.

 

[Buddy Ball 2K3]

Joe Mays - not even in my guide.....

Of 425+ players.

Don't feel bad, he wasn't on ESPN Insider's guide either.

Jason,I think you really went into this draft with unrealistic expectations. I have seen posts from you about the 12 picks they had feeling that they were going to be big movers and shakers in this draft.

I kept trying to tell you that 4 of those picks were compensatory picks in the 6th round or later that couldnt be moved.

Trevor Laws will immediately become part of a nice 3 man DT rotation with Patterson and Bunkley.

Desean Jackson is the returner you desparately need and is a much more explosive receiver than Avant, Baskett or any other non starting receiver on that roster.

They got both of the above players and added a #1 for next year. Excellent first couple of rounds for the Eagles.

I dont understand the 3rd round pick because I know nothing about that kid.

Mike McGlynn in the 4th round is an excellent pick.

I really like Quentin Demps in the 4th. I think he is already better than Sean Considine.

The rest of the draft is probably meh for them but that was your problem in the first place thinking that the Eagles were going to get anything of substance after the 4th round.

The Birds come out of the draft with DJ, Laws, Demps, McGlynn who should contribute / add depth. They get Lorenzo Booker for ST depth. As pointed out by JP, they did not have any starter openings this year, and they added a few good quality players, as well as adding a 1st round pick next year. The rest of the picks were probably like throwing darts at a dartboard, pick some projects and see who sticks.

Anyone who expected anything more from this draft is being unrealistic. I don't have a problem at all with Lito still being on the team. Samuel/Lito/Brown/Dawk would be one hell of a secondary if that is what they're going to do.

I really like what the Eagles have done in the draft. However, the mindset that the Eagles are so loaded that they dont have any starter openings is a mindset that has developed because Andy Reid doesnt play his rookies.1. Jamaal Jackson took a step back last year. He is an average center.

2. Herremens did not have a very good year at guard last year. I think he is below average and would expect Jean-Gillis to take his position unless he is another wasted draft pick. This should be the year Jean-Gillis breaks the starting lineup.

3. Fred Davis and John Carlson and probably some others are better TE's than LJ Smith.

4. I think the #3 WR spot is weak with Avant. I think DJ is much better than Avant if you consider that a starting position.

5. I like the DLine.

6. The LB crew is young and unaccomplished. Jared Mayo and Curtis Lofton are both better than anybody you currently have. (I know you werent in position to get Mayo).

7. Best set of CB's in the league (If Pacman is reinstated, Dallas is very close. Newman, Pacman and Mike Jenkins)

8. Kenny Phillips is better than Quentin Mikell.

There were a number of players, IMO, that the Eagles could have drafted to compete for starting positions.

The Patriots are loaded, right?

They drafted a starting ILB, a CB to compete for a starting position, and a rotational OLB that will play quite a bit. Do you think the Patriots had more holes to fill on their team than the Eagles?

I too have issues with the idea that Philadelphia had no starting spots open in 2008. Last time I checked, we didn't have 22 Pro Bowlers and, ergo, there are ALWAYS spots open.Here are a number of positions where the starting roles are are not, or shouldn't be set in stone as training camp approaches...

WR2/WR3...Reggie Brown is by no means good enough to be locked in as a starter, and neither Avant nor Baskett would be on most championship caliber rosters

FB...Jason Davis vs. Dan Klecko. There are no winners here.

RB2...If Lorenzo Booker is going to see playing time, a rookie could've made an impact behind Westbrook

LG...Herremans had a down season last year, and may lose his job/roster spot depending on what happens in camp

C...Jamaal Jackson was terrible last year, a major problem spot

LDE...Juqua Thomas Parker is one of the worst projected starting ends in our division

SLB...Gocong is going to have a chance to prove his value, but let's not pretend that a stud OLB wouldn't have been welcome competition and couldn't have beaten him out for a job in an open camp competition

SS...Quentin Mikell only looks good against the alternative, Sean Considine. Mikell is by no means irreplaceable

FS...Brian Dawkins isn't going to lose PT to a rookie, but we could've/should've drafted an impact safety earlier to groom; Dawkins is a fraction of what he used to be

P...Sav Rocca sucks

PK...David Akers isn't the stud we remember from a few years ago

WOW. Do you hate your team?I like Jaqua Thomas. Nobody on the roster is capable of beating out Reggie Brown. There should be some camp competition but probably not as much as you would like.

Hate my team? So I hate my team because I think they have guys who aren't elite at their positions in 12 spots? Seriously? The Eagles finished 8-8 last year and 4th in their division. Their best defender is past his prime, their two cornerstone tackles are on the wrong side of 30, and even the most ardent McNabb supporters (myself included) understand that this year has to be special if we plan on seeing Donnie Mac in an Eagles uniform beyond 2008. McNabb went out and publicly said the Eagles needed playmakers; and he wasn't wrong. I don't hate my team, I love them; like most fans, probably too much. As a result, I want them to move heaven and earth to improve at every position that they can. I'll still root my heart out for them each and every week; always have, always will. And I'll still hold out hope that they can make a run this year. But that doesn't mean I'm going to sit back and get excited for an offseason that management signaled it wanted/needed to do something ENORMOUS and have so far, not done it.

Jason I really do not understand you at all.The sign the top free agent corner available who had more interceptions in the past two years then the entire team.

The draft the fastest WR and best kick returner in the draft which was quite possibly the biggest need for the team.

They get a 1st round pick in the 09 draft that could quite possibly be a top 10 pick

So what move do you think they should have made that they did not? What player could they have gotten that would have met your rather high expectations of an ENORMOUS off season?

The didn't get a stud veteran WR. If they had, everyone would be talking about what a great draft it was. I really do think it comes down to that one position for many Eagles fans.

And thats what drives me nuts about many Eagles fans. Its like they are spoiled little babies. They fell that just because they have a want or need that is must be met no matter what. Who cares if there wasn't a top notch WR available for the Eagles to get!!?? WE WANT ONE AND WE WANT ONE NOW OR WE ARE GONNA !@#$# AND MOAN!!

 

[Deranged Hermit]

Alright, here's the quick and dirty on the draft from my VERY brief talk with my buddy last night.

* Otah was going to be their pick at 19. No surprise there. Carolina called offering their 2009 first and 4th and the Eagles siad thanks, but no thanks. Carolina said not to pick yet, they'll call back. The Eagles called down to their reps in NY and instruted them to take Otah if the clock reached 30 seconds and they heard nothing else from them. Carolina called back with an offer that added their 3rd. Again, the Eagles said no thanks, they like the player they are going to take so they are just going to take him. That's when they replaced the 3rd with a 2nd. The value chart was telling them something they already knew: this was a awesome offer. With a minute and change left, they called down and confirmed the trade. The guy on the other line said 'are you sure that's right'? When it was confirmed he laughed and said 'this is a steal'.

* With the Eagles basically having so many choices at WR, they thought it wise to take Laws first so they did. My buddy said he joke with Reid "you know just gave every Eagles fan a heart attack, right" knowing that everyone wanted a WR. He said they couldn't believe Jackson was still there. They had him ranked number two at WR behind Thomas. He said Sweed would be the pick had Jackson went off the board. He did say that they knew that Thomas was the only WR thet would go off the board early (never beleved he would go early 2nd) and they'd have one their guys drop.

* Mike McGlynn was his personal favorite pick. They think he's versitile and will probably put him at RT for the time being. I don't know much about the guy, so take I can't really comment.

* Thought Ikegwuonu was highway robbery. Apparently, had he not hurt his knee, he would have been a first day pick in their opinion.

I also joked with him about Cincy taking two WR in the draft and whether or not them getting an extra 1st AND keeping Lito was a sign of things to come. He just laughed and said 'we'll see, june 1st is a long way away'.....

 

[Ignatius Reilly]

Most Eagle fans don't understand football and get all worked up over nothing. You can sign any star you want but D and Oline win Super Bowls. It's why TO, Moss, LT, SJax and so on don't have a ring. The Eagles are solidifying the D and beefing up the Oline. They now have 2 1sts and a CB to go after that star WR they want. They could trade McNabb next year and not miss a beat.

I very rarely agree with anything you say, but by you here.Your competition drafted 'star' WR's. So what? Last time I checked, the Eagles have the most talent in the secondary than any other team BAR NONE. Lito (yes, he still plays here), Asante, Dawkins and Sheldon Brown are as good as it gets.They picked up the best return guy in the draft who also just happens to be a player in a 'need' position for you, WR.They beefed up both sides of the ball on the line.They got a 1st round pick that could be a top 10 pick (Carolina is going to be bad this year). Do not be surprised if that 1st is leveraged into a trade for a certain disgruntled WR who can't be traded until June 1st.Really, except for the fans and LOCAL media, I haven't seen anyone who was objective rip the Eagles draft. Quite the contrary in fact, most loved it.

Slider's comments are dead on - I'll even go further and say all you need is a pass rush and the ability to protect your QB - a QB that must be competent enough to know the system. The Giants won a superbowl soulely based on the fact that thier pass rush was nasty, they did a good job of protecting Eli, and the QB miracolously was outstanding in the playoffs That's why all McNabb haters literally have no clue what there talking about, the guy knows the system. The biggest problem the Eagles had was thre defense absolutely made no plays last year and once again did a poor job getting to the QB. I just get ticked at the Tweener DE/LB's we keep drafting. I wish they would draft DE's who get can get to the QB without solely depedning on speed so they dont get manhandled by big OT's

 

[Donny Loved Bowling]

Alright, here's the quick and dirty on the draft from my VERY brief talk with my buddy last night.* Otah was going to be their pick at 19. No surprise there. Carolina called offering their 2009 first and 4th and the Eagles siad thanks, but no thanks. Carolina said not to pick yet, they'll call back. The Eagles called down to their reps in NY and instruted them to take Otah if the clock reached 30 seconds and they heard nothing else from them. Carolina called back with an offer that added their 3rd. Again, the Eagles said no thanks, they like the player they are going to take so they are just going to take him. That's when they replaced the 3rd with a 2nd. The value chart was telling them something they already knew: this was a awesome offer. With a minute and change left, they called down and confirmed the trade. The guy on the other line said 'are you sure that's right'? When it was confirmed he laughed and said 'this is a steal'.* With the Eagles basically having so many choices at WR, they thought it wise to take Laws first so they did. My buddy said he joke with Reid "you know just gave every Eagles fan a heart attack, right" knowing that everyone wanted a WR. He said they couldn't believe Jackson was still there. They had him ranked number two at WR behind Thomas. He said Sweed would be the pick had Jackson went off the board. He did say that they knew that Thomas was the only WR thet would go off the board early (never beleved he would go early 2nd) and they'd have one their guys drop.* Mike McGlynn was his personal favorite pick. They think he's versitile and will probably put him at RT for the time being. I don't know much about the guy, so take I can't really comment.* Thought Ikegwuonu was highway robbery. Apparently, had he not hurt his knee, he would have been a first day pick in their opinion.I also joked with him about Cincy taking two WR in the draft and whether or not them getting an extra 1st AND keeping Lito was a sign of things to come. He just laughed and said 'we'll see, june 1st is a long way away'.....

It's interesting to get a peek inside the FO's thought process. If you happen to speak to your buddy again, DH, I'd love to hear about what they see in in Bryan Smith. More than any of their other selections, that one left me scratching my head, especially considering some of the highly-rated talent at need positions available at that point..

 

[Chunky Soup]

Alright, here's the quick and dirty on the draft from my VERY brief talk with my buddy last night.* Otah was going to be their pick at 19. No surprise there. Carolina called offering their 2009 first and 4th and the Eagles siad thanks, but no thanks. Carolina said not to pick yet, they'll call back. The Eagles called down to their reps in NY and instruted them to take Otah if the clock reached 30 seconds and they heard nothing else from them. Carolina called back with an offer that added their 3rd. Again, the Eagles said no thanks, they like the player they are going to take so they are just going to take him. That's when they replaced the 3rd with a 2nd. The value chart was telling them something they already knew: this was a awesome offer. With a minute and change left, they called down and confirmed the trade. The guy on the other line said 'are you sure that's right'? When it was confirmed he laughed and said 'this is a steal'.* With the Eagles basically having so many choices at WR, they thought it wise to take Laws first so they did. My buddy said he joke with Reid "you know just gave every Eagles fan a heart attack, right" knowing that everyone wanted a WR. He said they couldn't believe Jackson was still there. They had him ranked number two at WR behind Thomas. He said Sweed would be the pick had Jackson went off the board. He did say that they knew that Thomas was the only WR thet would go off the board early (never beleved he would go early 2nd) and they'd have one their guys drop.* Mike McGlynn was his personal favorite pick. They think he's versitile and will probably put him at RT for the time being. I don't know much about the guy, so take I can't really comment.* Thought Ikegwuonu was highway robbery. Apparently, had he not hurt his knee, he would have been a first day pick in their opinion.I also joked with him about Cincy taking two WR in the draft and whether or not them getting an extra 1st AND keeping Lito was a sign of things to come. He just laughed and said 'we'll see, june 1st is a long way away'.....

DH good as always. That is a great report about how the trade went down -- fascinating stuff.

 

[Donny Loved Bowling]

Most Eagle fans don't understand football and get all worked up over nothing. You can sign any star you want but D and Oline win Super Bowls. It's why TO, Moss, LT, SJax and so on don't have a ring. The Eagles are solidifying the D and beefing up the Oline. They now have 2 1sts and a CB to go after that star WR they want. They could trade McNabb next year and not miss a beat.

I very rarely agree with anything you say, but by you here.Your competition drafted 'star' WR's. So what? Last time I checked, the Eagles have the most talent in the secondary than any other team BAR NONE. Lito (yes, he still plays here), Asante, Dawkins and Sheldon Brown are as good as it gets.

They picked up the best return guy in the draft who also just happens to be a player in a 'need' position for you, WR.

They beefed up both sides of the ball on the line.

They got a 1st round pick that could be a top 10 pick (Carolina is going to be bad this year). Do not be surprised if that 1st is leveraged into a trade for a certain disgruntled WR who can't be traded until June 1st.

Really, except for the fans and LOCAL media, I haven't seen anyone who was objective rip the Eagles draft. Quite the contrary in fact, most loved it.

Slider's comments are dead on - I'll even go further and say all you need is a pass rush and the ability to protect your QB - a QB that must be competent enough to know the system. The Giants won a superbowl soulely based on the fact that thier pass rush was nasty, they did a good job of protecting Eli, and the QB miracolously was outstanding in the playoffs That's why all McNabb haters literally have no clue what there talking about, the guy knows the system. The biggest problem the Eagles had was thre defense absolutely made no plays last year and once again did a poor job getting to the QB. I just get ticked at the Tweener DE/LB's we keep drafting. I wish they would draft DE's who get can get to the QB without solely depedning on speed so they dont get manhandled by big OT's

I'm not so sure that was the big problem last year. Eagles were top-10 in the NFL for sacks last year. I think a bigger problem for the Birds last year was their red zone efficiency - they just didn't capitalize often enough on opportunities to score TDs. Hence the fans' outcry for a big-time receiver. The Giants could have had four HOFers on their defensive line, but without Plaxico Burress wreaking havoc inside the red zone, they go nowhere last year.

 

[Buddy Ball 2K3]

Alright, here's the quick and dirty on the draft from my VERY brief talk with my buddy last night.* Otah was going to be their pick at 19. No surprise there. Carolina called offering their 2009 first and 4th and the Eagles siad thanks, but no thanks. Carolina said not to pick yet, they'll call back. The Eagles called down to their reps in NY and instruted them to take Otah if the clock reached 30 seconds and they heard nothing else from them. Carolina called back with an offer that added their 3rd. Again, the Eagles said no thanks, they like the player they are going to take so they are just going to take him. That's when they replaced the 3rd with a 2nd. The value chart was telling them something they already knew: this was a awesome offer. With a minute and change left, they called down and confirmed the trade. The guy on the other line said 'are you sure that's right'? When it was confirmed he laughed and said 'this is a steal'.* With the Eagles basically having so many choices at WR, they thought it wise to take Laws first so they did. My buddy said he joke with Reid "you know just gave every Eagles fan a heart attack, right" knowing that everyone wanted a WR. He said they couldn't believe Jackson was still there. They had him ranked number two at WR behind Thomas. He said Sweed would be the pick had Jackson went off the board. He did say that they knew that Thomas was the only WR thet would go off the board early (never beleved he would go early 2nd) and they'd have one their guys drop.* Mike McGlynn was his personal favorite pick. They think he's versitile and will probably put him at RT for the time being. I don't know much about the guy, so take I can't really comment.* Thought Ikegwuonu was highway robbery. Apparently, had he not hurt his knee, he would have been a first day pick in their opinion.I also joked with him about Cincy taking two WR in the draft and whether or not them getting an extra 1st AND keeping Lito was a sign of things to come. He just laughed and said 'we'll see, june 1st is a long way away'.....

DH good as always. That is a great report about how the trade went down -- fascinating stuff.

Great read Glad they kept holding out on the Carolina trade, I think its going to help this team quite a bit.

 

[Deranged Hermit]

Most Eagle fans don't understand football and get all worked up over nothing. You can sign any star you want but D and Oline win Super Bowls. It's why TO, Moss, LT, SJax and so on don't have a ring. The Eagles are solidifying the D and beefing up the Oline. They now have 2 1sts and a CB to go after that star WR they want. They could trade McNabb next year and not miss a beat.

I very rarely agree with anything you say, but by you here.Your competition drafted 'star' WR's. So what? Last time I checked, the Eagles have the most talent in the secondary than any other team BAR NONE. Lito (yes, he still plays here), Asante, Dawkins and Sheldon Brown are as good as it gets.

They picked up the best return guy in the draft who also just happens to be a player in a 'need' position for you, WR.

They beefed up both sides of the ball on the line.

They got a 1st round pick that could be a top 10 pick (Carolina is going to be bad this year). Do not be surprised if that 1st is leveraged into a trade for a certain disgruntled WR who can't be traded until June 1st.

Really, except for the fans and LOCAL media, I haven't seen anyone who was objective rip the Eagles draft. Quite the contrary in fact, most loved it.

Slider's comments are dead on - I'll even go further and say all you need is a pass rush and the ability to protect your QB - a QB that must be competent enough to know the system. The Giants won a superbowl soulely based on the fact that thier pass rush was nasty, they did a good job of protecting Eli, and the QB miracolously was outstanding in the playoffs That's why all McNabb haters literally have no clue what there talking about, the guy knows the system. The biggest problem the Eagles had was thre defense absolutely made no plays last year and once again did a poor job getting to the QB. I just get ticked at the Tweener DE/LB's we keep drafting. I wish they would draft DE's who get can get to the QB without solely depedning on speed so they dont get manhandled by big OT's

I'm not so sure that was the big problem last year. Eagles were top-10 in the NFL for sacks last year. I think a bigger problem for the Birds last year was their red zone efficiency - they just didn't capitalize often enough on opportunities to score TDs. Hence the fans' outcry for a big-time receiver. The Giants could have had four HOFers on their defensive line, but without Plaxico Burress wreaking havoc inside the red zone, they go nowhere last year.

Yeah, the red-zone was a problem (that why I wanted them to take Hardy), but I think their biggest problem was the complete inability to create turnovers. With that bend-but-don't-break defense they love to use, the offense is constantly having to go the length of the field for every point they get. Samuel hopefully will help with that and hopefully they can get their D-line guys to start hacking at the football to cause fumbles.

 

[Deranged Hermit]

Alright, here's the quick and dirty on the draft from my VERY brief talk with my buddy last night.* Otah was going to be their pick at 19. No surprise there. Carolina called offering their 2009 first and 4th and the Eagles siad thanks, but no thanks. Carolina said not to pick yet, they'll call back. The Eagles called down to their reps in NY and instruted them to take Otah if the clock reached 30 seconds and they heard nothing else from them. Carolina called back with an offer that added their 3rd. Again, the Eagles said no thanks, they like the player they are going to take so they are just going to take him. That's when they replaced the 3rd with a 2nd. The value chart was telling them something they already knew: this was a awesome offer. With a minute and change left, they called down and confirmed the trade. The guy on the other line said 'are you sure that's right'? When it was confirmed he laughed and said 'this is a steal'.* With the Eagles basically having so many choices at WR, they thought it wise to take Laws first so they did. My buddy said he joke with Reid "you know just gave every Eagles fan a heart attack, right" knowing that everyone wanted a WR. He said they couldn't believe Jackson was still there. They had him ranked number two at WR behind Thomas. He said Sweed would be the pick had Jackson went off the board. He did say that they knew that Thomas was the only WR thet would go off the board early (never beleved he would go early 2nd) and they'd have one their guys drop.* Mike McGlynn was his personal favorite pick. They think he's versitile and will probably put him at RT for the time being. I don't know much about the guy, so take I can't really comment.* Thought Ikegwuonu was highway robbery. Apparently, had he not hurt his knee, he would have been a first day pick in their opinion.I also joked with him about Cincy taking two WR in the draft and whether or not them getting an extra 1st AND keeping Lito was a sign of things to come. He just laughed and said 'we'll see, june 1st is a long way away'.....

DH good as always. That is a great report about how the trade went down -- fascinating stuff.

Great read Glad they kept holding out on the Carolina trade, I think its going to help this team quite a bit.

They were in a huge position of strength here. Had Carolina walked away, they were getting a guy they wanted. Win-win situation for them......

 

[Deranged Hermit]

Alright, here's the quick and dirty on the draft from my VERY brief talk with my buddy last night.

* Otah was going to be their pick at 19. No surprise there. Carolina called offering their 2009 first and 4th and the Eagles siad thanks, but no thanks. Carolina said not to pick yet, they'll call back. The Eagles called down to their reps in NY and instruted them to take Otah if the clock reached 30 seconds and they heard nothing else from them. Carolina called back with an offer that added their 3rd. Again, the Eagles said no thanks, they like the player they are going to take so they are just going to take him. That's when they replaced the 3rd with a 2nd. The value chart was telling them something they already knew: this was a awesome offer. With a minute and change left, they called down and confirmed the trade. The guy on the other line said 'are you sure that's right'? When it was confirmed he laughed and said 'this is a steal'.

* With the Eagles basically having so many choices at WR, they thought it wise to take Laws first so they did. My buddy said he joke with Reid "you know just gave every Eagles fan a heart attack, right" knowing that everyone wanted a WR. He said they couldn't believe Jackson was still there. They had him ranked number two at WR behind Thomas. He said Sweed would be the pick had Jackson went off the board. He did say that they knew that Thomas was the only WR thet would go off the board early (never beleved he would go early 2nd) and they'd have one their guys drop.

* Mike McGlynn was his personal favorite pick. They think he's versitile and will probably put him at RT for the time being. I don't know much about the guy, so take I can't really comment.

* Thought Ikegwuonu was highway robbery. Apparently, had he not hurt his knee, he would have been a first day pick in their opinion.

I also joked with him about Cincy taking two WR in the draft and whether or not them getting an extra 1st AND keeping Lito was a sign of things to come. He just laughed and said 'we'll see, june 1st is a long way away'.....

It's interesting to get a peek inside the FO's thought process. If you happen to speak to your buddy again, DH, I'd love to hear about what they see in in Bryan Smith. More than any of their other selections, that one left me scratching my head, especially considering some of the highly-rated talent at need positions available at that point..

If I remember correctly, and I could be mixing him up with another player, one of the scouts fell in love with him and pimped him to Reid non-stop. Reid like what he saw and drafted him....

 

[Jeff Pasquino]

Alright, here's the quick and dirty on the draft from my VERY brief talk with my buddy last night.

* Otah was going to be their pick at 19. No surprise there. Carolina called offering their 2009 first and 4th and the Eagles siad thanks, but no thanks. Carolina said not to pick yet, they'll call back. The Eagles called down to their reps in NY and instruted them to take Otah if the clock reached 30 seconds and they heard nothing else from them. Carolina called back with an offer that added their 3rd. Again, the Eagles said no thanks, they like the player they are going to take so they are just going to take him. That's when they replaced the 3rd with a 2nd. The value chart was telling them something they already knew: this was a awesome offer. With a minute and change left, they called down and confirmed the trade. The guy on the other line said 'are you sure that's right'? When it was confirmed he laughed and said 'this is a steal'.

* With the Eagles basically having so many choices at WR, they thought it wise to take Laws first so they did. My buddy said he joke with Reid "you know just gave every Eagles fan a heart attack, right" knowing that everyone wanted a WR. He said they couldn't believe Jackson was still there. They had him ranked number two at WR behind Thomas. He said Sweed would be the pick had Jackson went off the board. He did say that they knew that Thomas was the only WR thet would go off the board early (never beleved he would go early 2nd) and they'd have one their guys drop.

* Mike McGlynn was his personal favorite pick. They think he's versitile and will probably put him at RT for the time being. I don't know much about the guy, so take I can't really comment.

* Thought Ikegwuonu was highway robbery. Apparently, had he not hurt his knee, he would have been a first day pick in their opinion.

I also joked with him about Cincy taking two WR in the draft and whether or not them getting an extra 1st AND keeping Lito was a sign of things to come. He just laughed and said 'we'll see, june 1st is a long way away'.....

It's interesting to get a peek inside the FO's thought process. If you happen to speak to your buddy again, DH, I'd love to hear about what they see in in Bryan Smith. More than any of their other selections, that one left me scratching my head, especially considering some of the highly-rated talent at need positions available at that point..

If I remember correctly, and I could be mixing him up with another player, one of the scouts fell in love with him and pimped him to Reid non-stop. Reid like what he saw and drafted him....

D.Hermit, great stuff as always. I don't get the Smith pick either, especially with Morgan still available (who went to KC 2 picks later).

I'm curious if Morgan was in the discussions.

I'm also wondering if >1 WR was ever discussed for a Day 2 pick, or if the FO will bring in Adarius Bowman from OK.

 

[JAA]

Alright, here's the quick and dirty on the draft from my VERY brief talk with my buddy last night.* Otah was going to be their pick at 19. No surprise there. Carolina called offering their 2009 first and 4th and the Eagles siad thanks, but no thanks. Carolina said not to pick yet, they'll call back. The Eagles called down to their reps in NY and instruted them to take Otah if the clock reached 30 seconds and they heard nothing else from them. Carolina called back with an offer that added their 3rd. Again, the Eagles said no thanks, they like the player they are going to take so they are just going to take him. That's when they replaced the 3rd with a 2nd. The value chart was telling them something they already knew: this was a awesome offer. With a minute and change left, they called down and confirmed the trade. The guy on the other line said 'are you sure that's right'? When it was confirmed he laughed and said 'this is a steal'.* With the Eagles basically having so many choices at WR, they thought it wise to take Laws first so they did. My buddy said he joke with Reid "you know just gave every Eagles fan a heart attack, right" knowing that everyone wanted a WR. He said they couldn't believe Jackson was still there. They had him ranked number two at WR behind Thomas. He said Sweed would be the pick had Jackson went off the board. He did say that they knew that Thomas was the only WR thet would go off the board early (never beleved he would go early 2nd) and they'd have one their guys drop.* Mike McGlynn was his personal favorite pick. They think he's versitile and will probably put him at RT for the time being. I don't know much about the guy, so take I can't really comment.* Thought Ikegwuonu was highway robbery. Apparently, had he not hurt his knee, he would have been a first day pick in their opinion.I also joked with him about Cincy taking two WR in the draft and whether or not them getting an extra 1st AND keeping Lito was a sign of things to come. He just laughed and said 'we'll see, june 1st is a long way away'.....

awesome read, thanks

 

[Deranged Hermit]

Alright, here's the quick and dirty on the draft from my VERY brief talk with my buddy last night.

* Otah was going to be their pick at 19. No surprise there. Carolina called offering their 2009 first and 4th and the Eagles siad thanks, but no thanks. Carolina said not to pick yet, they'll call back. The Eagles called down to their reps in NY and instruted them to take Otah if the clock reached 30 seconds and they heard nothing else from them. Carolina called back with an offer that added their 3rd. Again, the Eagles said no thanks, they like the player they are going to take so they are just going to take him. That's when they replaced the 3rd with a 2nd. The value chart was telling them something they already knew: this was a awesome offer. With a minute and change left, they called down and confirmed the trade. The guy on the other line said 'are you sure that's right'? When it was confirmed he laughed and said 'this is a steal'.

* With the Eagles basically having so many choices at WR, they thought it wise to take Laws first so they did. My buddy said he joke with Reid "you know just gave every Eagles fan a heart attack, right" knowing that everyone wanted a WR. He said they couldn't believe Jackson was still there. They had him ranked number two at WR behind Thomas. He said Sweed would be the pick had Jackson went off the board. He did say that they knew that Thomas was the only WR thet would go off the board early (never beleved he would go early 2nd) and they'd have one their guys drop.

* Mike McGlynn was his personal favorite pick. They think he's versitile and will probably put him at RT for the time being. I don't know much about the guy, so take I can't really comment.

* Thought Ikegwuonu was highway robbery. Apparently, had he not hurt his knee, he would have been a first day pick in their opinion.

I also joked with him about Cincy taking two WR in the draft and whether or not them getting an extra 1st AND keeping Lito was a sign of things to come. He just laughed and said 'we'll see, june 1st is a long way away'.....

It's interesting to get a peek inside the FO's thought process. If you happen to speak to your buddy again, DH, I'd love to hear about what they see in in Bryan Smith. More than any of their other selections, that one left me scratching my head, especially considering some of the highly-rated talent at need positions available at that point..

If I remember correctly, and I could be mixing him up with another player, one of the scouts fell in love with him and pimped him to Reid non-stop. Reid like what he saw and drafted him....

D.Hermit, great stuff as always. I don't get the Smith pick either, especially with Morgan still available (who went to KC 2 picks later).

I'm curious if Morgan was in the discussions.

I'm also wondering if >1 WR was ever discussed for a Day 2 pick, or if the FO will bring in Adarius Bowman from OK.

I'll likely see him this weekend at my nephew's First Communion party (how dare he attend my nephew's party and not my son's this past Saturday? ). I'll ask him these questions for you Jeff......

 

[renesauz]

As always...GREAT STUFF Hermit.

Jason, I have some Atavan for you......

 

[Jason Wood]

I'm back off the ledge now. I think my lack of obsession about all the pre-draft chatter and mocks backfired on me in a big way this weekend because, rather than appreciate the value they were getting at positions, I just kept saying, "he's not helping us THIS year." To those who labeled me as acting like a "typical Eagles fan", I can say guilty as charged. If you know me, you also know that's just about as insulting a thing you could've said about me, because I spend a good chunk of my time disputing the conventional logic about the team; particularly because most fans say silly things about Andy Reid, Donovan McNabb, etc...

This year I wanted to have my cake and eat it too (who doesn't right?). With so many veteran WRs allegedly unhappy, and with the Eagles legitimately trying to sign Randy Moss to a monster deal, I took that to mean, the Eagles were going to do everything in their power to win NOW and get a playmaker. I'm sure that they will continue to work the phones and after June 1st, who knows?

In the meantime, I just hope everyone stays healthy and we can get off to a strong start this year to give the Linc an electric feel as the cold weather kicks in.

 

[renesauz]

I'm back off the ledge now. I think my lack of obsession about all the pre-draft chatter and mocks backfired on me in a big way this weekend because, rather than appreciate the value they were getting at positions, I just kept saying, "he's not helping us THIS year." To those who labeled me as acting like a "typical Eagles fan", I can say guilty as charged. If you know me, you also know that's just about as insulting a thing you could've said about me, because I spend a good chunk of my time disputing the conventional logic about the team; particularly because most fans say silly things about Andy Reid, Donovan McNabb, etc...This year I wanted to have my cake and eat it too (who doesn't right?). With so many veteran WRs allegedly unhappy, and with the Eagles legitimately trying to sign Randy Moss to a monster deal, I took that to mean, the Eagles were going to do everything in their power to win NOW and get a playmaker. I'm sure that they will continue to work the phones and after June 1st, who knows?In the meantime, I just hope everyone stays healthy and we can get off to a strong start this year to give the Linc an electric feel as the cold weather kicks in.

Welcome back to Earth bud! Besides, it isn't over. I'd be very willing to bet the birds take another run at one of those WR's after June 1.Also, let's not sell Jackson short...he could turn into a younger version of Steve Smith, after all! PLUS...we now have something else to root for this year...or another team to root against that is.

 

[E-A-G-L-E-S]

Some good reading here.

I like the first day picks. Jackson adresses a glaring need. I thought picking Mendenhall or Felix Jones would have given them another playmaker that they need. They still would have been able to get Jackson, and with all the picks maybe move up to get Laws, but whats done is done.

Like alot of you I question the 3rd rd pick of the small DE seems like he is no different then Clemmons who they signed as a free agent. Sounds like they got some good OL depth.

Reading the scouting report on Demps makes me feel good, sounds like he is a playmaker and will immediately help the special teams and eventually be a starter.

The CB from Wisconsin may be a steal for the future. If they do trade Lito and a pick for a certain disgruntled WR, their CB depth may be shaky, but I would be all for that trade.

 

[Jason Wood]

I'm back off the ledge now. I think my lack of obsession about all the pre-draft chatter and mocks backfired on me in a big way this weekend because, rather than appreciate the value they were getting at positions, I just kept saying, "he's not helping us THIS year." To those who labeled me as acting like a "typical Eagles fan", I can say guilty as charged. If you know me, you also know that's just about as insulting a thing you could've said about me, because I spend a good chunk of my time disputing the conventional logic about the team; particularly because most fans say silly things about Andy Reid, Donovan McNabb, etc...This year I wanted to have my cake and eat it too (who doesn't right?). With so many veteran WRs allegedly unhappy, and with the Eagles legitimately trying to sign Randy Moss to a monster deal, I took that to mean, the Eagles were going to do everything in their power to win NOW and get a playmaker. I'm sure that they will continue to work the phones and after June 1st, who knows?In the meantime, I just hope everyone stays healthy and we can get off to a strong start this year to give the Linc an electric feel as the cold weather kicks in.

Welcome back to Earth bud! Besides, it isn't over. I'd be very willing to bet the birds take another run at one of those WR's after June 1.Also, let's not sell Jackson short...he could turn into a younger version of Steve Smith, after all! PLUS...we now have something else to root for this year...or another team to root against that is.

Good to be back.When Chris Clemons leads the NFC in sacks this year, I'll be doing a dance of joy.

 

[Ignatius Reilly]

Most Eagle fans don't understand football and get all worked up over nothing. You can sign any star you want but D and Oline win Super Bowls. It's why TO, Moss, LT, SJax and so on don't have a ring. The Eagles are solidifying the D and beefing up the Oline. They now have 2 1sts and a CB to go after that star WR they want. They could trade McNabb next year and not miss a beat.

I very rarely agree with anything you say, but by you here.Your competition drafted 'star' WR's. So what? Last time I checked, the Eagles have the most talent in the secondary than any other team BAR NONE. Lito (yes, he still plays here), Asante, Dawkins and Sheldon Brown are as good as it gets.

They picked up the best return guy in the draft who also just happens to be a player in a 'need' position for you, WR.

They beefed up both sides of the ball on the line.

They got a 1st round pick that could be a top 10 pick (Carolina is going to be bad this year). Do not be surprised if that 1st is leveraged into a trade for a certain disgruntled WR who can't be traded until June 1st.

Really, except for the fans and LOCAL media, I haven't seen anyone who was objective rip the Eagles draft. Quite the contrary in fact, most loved it.

Slider's comments are dead on - I'll even go further and say all you need is a pass rush and the ability to protect your QB - a QB that must be competent enough to know the system. The Giants won a superbowl soulely based on the fact that thier pass rush was nasty, they did a good job of protecting Eli, and the QB miracolously was outstanding in the playoffs That's why all McNabb haters literally have no clue what there talking about, the guy knows the system. The biggest problem the Eagles had was thre defense absolutely made no plays last year and once again did a poor job getting to the QB. I just get ticked at the Tweener DE/LB's we keep drafting. I wish they would draft DE's who get can get to the QB without solely depedning on speed so they dont get manhandled by big OT's

I'm not so sure that was the big problem last year. Eagles were top-10 in the NFL for sacks last year. I think a bigger problem for the Birds last year was their red zone efficiency - they just didn't capitalize often enough on opportunities to score TDs. Hence the fans' outcry for a big-time receiver. The Giants could have had four HOFers on their defensive line, but without Plaxico Burress wreaking havoc inside the red zone, they go nowhere last year.

Agreed on thier red zone effiency, but I dont think the recievers are to blame - they were had good years inside the 20 in the Stinkston/Thrash era. As far the Giants comment, trust me as I've lived in NYC my whole life and saw the lion share of there games, Plax was not the reason they won the superbowl, it was thier pass rush. They physically beat up the Patriots O-Line and Brady in that superbowl - the D Line namely Tuck was the MVP of that game, not Manning

Reid's belief that the sucess of your team begins with great line play from both end is dead on, and you need a comptent QB to institue the offense. What drives us all crazy is the talent he brings in at the skill positions to institue this philopshy. If you were a fan of the Eagles back in the late 80's you see how a bad offensive line can hold a team back, so Andy can draft all the OT's he wants and I will never complain.

DH- thanks for the draft day insight- would love some more info on the 3rd rder as well. Still annoys me that they like those undersized DE's that apparently have speed. The only one I know of who is a great player is Freeney.

 

[dirtywaters20]

Alright, here's the quick and dirty on the draft from my VERY brief talk with my buddy last night.

* Otah was going to be their pick at 19. No surprise there. Carolina called offering their 2009 first and 4th and the Eagles siad thanks, but no thanks. Carolina said not to pick yet, they'll call back. The Eagles called down to their reps in NY and instruted them to take Otah if the clock reached 30 seconds and they heard nothing else from them. Carolina called back with an offer that added their 3rd. Again, the Eagles said no thanks, they like the player they are going to take so they are just going to take him. That's when they replaced the 3rd with a 2nd. The value chart was telling them something they already knew: this was a awesome offer. With a minute and change left, they called down and confirmed the trade. The guy on the other line said 'are you sure that's right'? When it was confirmed he laughed and said 'this is a steal'.

* With the Eagles basically having so many choices at WR, they thought it wise to take Laws first so they did. My buddy said he joke with Reid "you know just gave every Eagles fan a heart attack, right" knowing that everyone wanted a WR. He said they couldn't believe Jackson was still there. They had him ranked number two at WR behind Thomas. He said Sweed would be the pick had Jackson went off the board. He did say that they knew that Thomas was the only WR thet would go off the board early (never beleved he would go early 2nd) and they'd have one their guys drop.

* Mike McGlynn was his personal favorite pick. They think he's versitile and will probably put him at RT for the time being. I don't know much about the guy, so take I can't really comment.

* Thought Ikegwuonu was highway robbery. Apparently, had he not hurt his knee, he would have been a first day pick in their opinion.

I also joked with him about Cincy taking two WR in the draft and whether or not them getting an extra 1st AND keeping Lito was a sign of things to come. He just laughed and said 'we'll see, june 1st is a long way away'.....

It's interesting to get a peek inside the FO's thought process. If you happen to speak to your buddy again, DH, I'd love to hear about what they see in in Bryan Smith. More than any of their other selections, that one left me scratching my head, especially considering some of the highly-rated talent at need positions available at that point..

If I remember correctly, and I could be mixing him up with another player, one of the scouts fell in love with him and pimped him to Reid non-stop. Reid like what he saw and drafted him....

The rumor has Pete Jenkins (d-line coach) being the one doing the relentless pimping.

 

[Ignatius Reilly]

Alright, here's the quick and dirty on the draft from my VERY brief talk with my buddy last night.

* Otah was going to be their pick at 19. No surprise there. Carolina called offering their 2009 first and 4th and the Eagles siad thanks, but no thanks. Carolina said not to pick yet, they'll call back. The Eagles called down to their reps in NY and instruted them to take Otah if the clock reached 30 seconds and they heard nothing else from them. Carolina called back with an offer that added their 3rd. Again, the Eagles said no thanks, they like the player they are going to take so they are just going to take him. That's when they replaced the 3rd with a 2nd. The value chart was telling them something they already knew: this was a awesome offer. With a minute and change left, they called down and confirmed the trade. The guy on the other line said 'are you sure that's right'? When it was confirmed he laughed and said 'this is a steal'.

* With the Eagles basically having so many choices at WR, they thought it wise to take Laws first so they did. My buddy said he joke with Reid "you know just gave every Eagles fan a heart attack, right" knowing that everyone wanted a WR. He said they couldn't believe Jackson was still there. They had him ranked number two at WR behind Thomas. He said Sweed would be the pick had Jackson went off the board. He did say that they knew that Thomas was the only WR thet would go off the board early (never beleved he would go early 2nd) and they'd have one their guys drop.

* Mike McGlynn was his personal favorite pick. They think he's versitile and will probably put him at RT for the time being. I don't know much about the guy, so take I can't really comment.

* Thought Ikegwuonu was highway robbery. Apparently, had he not hurt his knee, he would have been a first day pick in their opinion.

I also joked with him about Cincy taking two WR in the draft and whether or not them getting an extra 1st AND keeping Lito was a sign of things to come. He just laughed and said 'we'll see, june 1st is a long way away'.....

It's interesting to get a peek inside the FO's thought process. If you happen to speak to your buddy again, DH, I'd love to hear about what they see in in Bryan Smith. More than any of their other selections, that one left me scratching my head, especially considering some of the highly-rated talent at need positions available at that point..

If I remember correctly, and I could be mixing him up with another player, one of the scouts fell in love with him and pimped him to Reid non-stop. Reid like what he saw and drafted him....

The rumor has Pete Jenkins (d-line coach) being the one doing the relentless pimping.

Apparently Bryan Smith paid the Lions a visit .....Marinelli thinks he can find good rushers in the later rounds. McNeese State defensive end Bryan Smith visited Lions' headquarters. Pro Football Weekly's scouting report? Lacks size at 6-foot-2, 231 pounds, and needs to bulk up, but has good instincts, toughness and work ethic. Racked up 24 sacks in 22 starts the past two seasons.

"Always err on the side of production, always err on the side of film," Marinelli said. "Don't want to err because of how high they jump and how tall they are and all those things."

Here's the link -

http://www.freep.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article...313/1049/SPORTS

 

[Stillers Jr.]

Didn't one of their picks get arrested for stealing an Xbox or something?

 

[Jason Wood]

Didn't one of their picks get arrested for stealing an Xbox or something?

I know that Ikegwuonu had some legal trouble a few years ago, but don't know if it had anything to do with XBox thievery.

 

[Lehigh98]

In the meantime, I just hope everyone stays healthy and we can get off to a strong start this year to give the Linc an electric feel as the cold weather kicks in.

This is so true, it seems like they started out lethargic two years in a row and gave away some games.I can point to a few last year that we should have won and just one would have gotten us into the playoffs.

 

[renesauz]

Didn't one of their picks get arrested for stealing an Xbox or something?

Yep..but I thought the case was settled out of court. Sounded more like college foolishness then a real crook. Guy would have been a first rounder without the injury and the "legal problem"...I have no problem with Philly taking a chance on him where they did.

 

[Jason Wood]

What does everyone know about King Dunlap, our 7th rounder?

Pro Football Weekly had him ranked 10th in their Draft Guide; but keep in mind that was published before the Combine. I see he only started a full season in 2006 (his junior year) and had only 6 starts in 2007. He's listed at 6'8", 310 pounds; which is gigantic.

According to PFW:

Very naturally athletic, king-sized underachiever who has not had to work for anything in his life. Lack of toughness will drive coaches crazy. If a team can figure out how to flip his switch, it could wind up with an elite left tackle, but after being benched as a senior and struggling to live up to his immense physical abilities in college, he will enter the draft with a "buyer beware" label. Rare measurables scream first round. Inconsistent performance will temper expectations.

Any Auburn fans or draftniks know the deal here? Not too often you see someone described as "not had to work for anything in his life."

 

[renesauz]

What does everyone know about King Dunlap, our 7th rounder?

Pro Football Weekly had him ranked 10th in their Draft Guide; but keep in mind that was published before the Combine. I see he only started a full season in 2006 (his junior year) and had only 6 starts in 2007. He's listed at 6'8", 310 pounds; which is gigantic.

According to PFW:

Very naturally athletic, king-sized underachiever who has not had to work for anything in his life. Lack of toughness will drive coaches crazy. If a team can figure out how to flip his switch, it could wind up with an elite left tackle, but after being benched as a senior and struggling to live up to his immense physical abilities in college, he will enter the draft with a "buyer beware" label. Rare measurables scream first round. Inconsistent performance will temper expectations.

Any Auburn fans or draftniks know the deal here? Not too often you see someone described as "not had to work for anything in his life."

That's one of the most unusual write-ups I can ever remember reading from PFW

 

[Lehigh98]

What does everyone know about King Dunlap, our 7th rounder?

Pro Football Weekly had him ranked 10th in their Draft Guide; but keep in mind that was published before the Combine. I see he only started a full season in 2006 (his junior year) and had only 6 starts in 2007. He's listed at 6'8", 310 pounds; which is gigantic.

According to PFW:

Very naturally athletic, king-sized underachiever who has not had to work for anything in his life. Lack of toughness will drive coaches crazy. If a team can figure out how to flip his switch, it could wind up with an elite left tackle, but after being benched as a senior and struggling to live up to his immense physical abilities in college, he will enter the draft with a "buyer beware" label. Rare measurables scream first round. Inconsistent performance will temper expectations.

Any Auburn fans or draftniks know the deal here? Not too often you see someone described as "not had to work for anything in his life."

From my buddy who's an Auburn guy from an Auburn family with Auburn crap all over the place..."King Dunlap was benched in favor of a true freshmen this past season. Showed signs of being really good his junior year, but was inconsistent and not nasty enough in my opinion. I don't expect him to make the Eagles' roster...I'm surprised he was drafted at all."

 

[Jeff Pasquino]

What does everyone know about King Dunlap, our 7th rounder?

Pro Football Weekly had him ranked 10th in their Draft Guide; but keep in mind that was published before the Combine. I see he only started a full season in 2006 (his junior year) and had only 6 starts in 2007. He's listed at 6'8", 310 pounds; which is gigantic.

According to PFW:

Very naturally athletic, king-sized underachiever who has not had to work for anything in his life. Lack of toughness will drive coaches crazy. If a team can figure out how to flip his switch, it could wind up with an elite left tackle, but after being benched as a senior and struggling to live up to his immense physical abilities in college, he will enter the draft with a "buyer beware" label. Rare measurables scream first round. Inconsistent performance will temper expectations.

Any Auburn fans or draftniks know the deal here? Not too often you see someone described as "not had to work for anything in his life."

From TSN's 2008 Draft Guide:

NFL Comparison - Wayne Gandy, Falcons

#6 overall at OT, 2nd round prospect behind Otah and ahead of Duane Brown, Gosder Cherilus, Sam Baker and Chad Rinehart.

Run Blocking - 6.5

Pass Blocking - 7.5

Initial Quickness - 7.0

Strength - 6.0

Mobility - 8.0

Bottom Line - Dunlap's play was inconsistent during his college career. He has rare height and long arms but must learn to use his hands more effectively. Dunlap has the tlaent to be a good NFL starter at LT or RT bus should spend a season as a backup while improving his technique.

 

[Jason Wood]

What does everyone know about King Dunlap, our 7th rounder?

Pro Football Weekly had him ranked 10th in their Draft Guide; but keep in mind that was published before the Combine. I see he only started a full season in 2006 (his junior year) and had only 6 starts in 2007. He's listed at 6'8", 310 pounds; which is gigantic.

According to PFW:

Very naturally athletic, king-sized underachiever who has not had to work for anything in his life. Lack of toughness will drive coaches crazy. If a team can figure out how to flip his switch, it could wind up with an elite left tackle, but after being benched as a senior and struggling to live up to his immense physical abilities in college, he will enter the draft with a "buyer beware" label. Rare measurables scream first round. Inconsistent performance will temper expectations.

Any Auburn fans or draftniks know the deal here? Not too often you see someone described as "not had to work for anything in his life."

From my buddy who's an Auburn guy from an Auburn family with Auburn crap all over the place..."King Dunlap was benched in favor of a true freshmen this past season. Showed signs of being really good his junior year, but was inconsistent and not nasty enough in my opinion. I don't expect him to make the Eagles' roster...I'm surprised he was drafted at all."

Thanks Lehigh. Obviously anytime you get a guy with his size and strength, playing for a major program, you wonder how he falls into the 7th. Then when I saw PFW had him 10th in their guide, I really got curious. But being benched your senior year for a true freshman is an awful indicator of either his work ethic or his toughness; clearly the coaches felt he wasn't worth the effort anymore.I could see the Birds really testing his toughness in camp, and if he surprises, sticking him on the P.S. otherwise he'll be released for sure.

 

[BuddyKnuckles]

Didn't one of their picks get arrested for stealing an Xbox or something?

Yep..but I thought the case was settled out of court. Sounded more like college foolishness then a real crook. Guy would have been a first rounder without the injury and the "legal problem"...I have no problem with Philly taking a chance on him where they did.

Apparently his brother just denied the plea deal, so looks like this thing may go to trial. Not good considering there is one felony count against him. It should all be resolved though, better or worse, by the time he is ready to play again in '09

 

[JAA]

I'm back off the ledge now. I think my lack of obsession about all the pre-draft chatter and mocks backfired on me in a big way this weekend because, rather than appreciate the value they were getting at positions, I just kept saying, "he's not helping us THIS year." To those who labeled me as acting like a "typical Eagles fan", I can say guilty as charged. If you know me, you also know that's just about as insulting a thing you could've said about me, because I spend a good chunk of my time disputing the conventional logic about the team; particularly because most fans say silly things about Andy Reid, Donovan McNabb, etc...This year I wanted to have my cake and eat it too (who doesn't right?). With so many veteran WRs allegedly unhappy, and with the Eagles legitimately trying to sign Randy Moss to a monster deal, I took that to mean, the Eagles were going to do everything in their power to win NOW and get a playmaker. I'm sure that they will continue to work the phones and after June 1st, who knows?In the meantime, I just hope everyone stays healthy and we can get off to a strong start this year to give the Linc an electric feel as the cold weather kicks in.

/typical eagles fan

 

[Buddy Ball 2K3]

Jacksonville interested in Lito

According to league sources, Sheppard's agent, Lamont Smith, has had extensive conversations with the Jacksonville Jaguars about a possible offer for his client. The Jags, who are trying to make their defense as Peyton Manning-proof as possible, were interested in Sheppard before the draft. But their first-round trade-up with Baltimore to get defensive end Derrick Harvey cost them two third-round picks and a fourth-round selection, leaving them with just two picks in the first four rounds.

But Smith is trying to broker a deal that would have the Jags giving the Eagles a package of '09 draft picks for Sheppard.

Philly Daily News.com

 

[JaxBill]

That would coincide with the Jags' Best Available Gator drafting philosophy.

 

[Deranged Hermit]

Jacksonville interested in Lito

According to league sources, Sheppard's agent, Lamont Smith, has had extensive conversations with the Jacksonville Jaguars about a possible offer for his client. The Jags, who are trying to make their defense as Peyton Manning-proof as possible, were interested in Sheppard before the draft. But their first-round trade-up with Baltimore to get defensive end Derrick Harvey cost them two third-round picks and a fourth-round selection, leaving them with just two picks in the first four rounds.

But Smith is trying to broker a deal that would have the Jags giving the Eagles a package of '09 draft picks for Sheppard.

Philly Daily News.com

I reported that the Jags were interested on Friday. In fact, I thought it was a done deal at the time.I knew they were too far ahead in negoiations to completly scrap the deal.....

 

[Buddy Ball 2K3]

Jacksonville interested in Lito

According to league sources, Sheppard's agent, Lamont Smith, has had extensive conversations with the Jacksonville Jaguars about a possible offer for his client. The Jags, who are trying to make their defense as Peyton Manning-proof as possible, were interested in Sheppard before the draft. But their first-round trade-up with Baltimore to get defensive end Derrick Harvey cost them two third-round picks and a fourth-round selection, leaving them with just two picks in the first four rounds.

But Smith is trying to broker a deal that would have the Jags giving the Eagles a package of '09 draft picks for Sheppard.

Philly Daily News.com

I reported that the Jags were interested on Friday. In fact, I thought it was a done deal at the time.I knew they were too far ahead in negoiations to completly scrap the deal.....

Yeah, but now they are talking 09 picks we may get a much better deal from them.