This weekend we got a good look at the lay of the land, when it comes to the Eagles winning a Super Bowl title. We saw what Chip Kelly and his ball club will be facing when they try to get that Lombardi trophy again next year.
From what I saw this weekend, for the next three years the Birds are going to need to beat the Seattle Seahawks, San Francisco 49ers, New Orleans Saints or the Carolina Panthers if they want to advance out of the NFC to the Super Bowl. All of these teams are Super Bowl caliber, when they’re healthy. All four of these teams have good to outstanding defenses with strong running games and they are led by talented quarterbacks.
Drew Brees is the only veteran quarterback of the group, but the entire trio of young quarterbacks, Russell Wilson, Colin Kaepernick and Cam Newton are extremely talented.
To make it plain, the Birds have their work cut out for them. Right now the NFC is clearly the better conference. Of the four teams still in the running for this year’s Super Bowl, I think both San Francisco and Seattle are better football teams than either the Broncos or the Patriots. I might even favor New Orleans over them if the Saints had made it.
Seattle is very physical on both sides of the ball and their secondary is probably the best in the league. It’s not going to be easy for anybody in the league to go to Seattle and win for the next four or five years. If the Eagles play Seattle in the playoffs during that time, they want to play them here in Philly.
On the offensive side of the ball, the Seahawks have Marshawn “Beastmode” Lynch, who runs like a modern day Earl Campbell. The Seahawks offensive line is physical, but Lynch is more physical than his offensive line. He pounded the New Orleans defense on Saturday until it broke. Lynch ran for 140 yards on 28 carries with two touchdowns.
Eagles defensive coordinator Billy Davis needs to think about putting a front seven and safeties that can handle “Beastmode”.
Remember that the same Saints defense held LeSean McCoy to 77 yards on 21 carries. New Orleans has gotten much better defensively and they kept the Saints in the game for most of Saturday afternoon, but they eventually broke under the pressure of the Seattle pounding. Remember, the Eagles weren’t able to run the ball on the Saints, but the Seahawks got the job done.
The Saints offensive line which played so well against the Eagles did a good but not great job in their battle upfront against Seattle. The Saints had run for 185 yards against the Birds, but they only ran for 108 yards against the Seahawks. I thought the New Orleans offensive line held their own on Saturday, but they didn’t get enough help from Drew Brees and the Saints receivers.
I thoroughly enjoyed the Saints-Seahawks battle and expect to see both teams in the middle of the Super Bowl chase for the next few years.
Yesterday, we saw the San Francisco 49ers defense hold the Carolina Panthers to only 10 points as the Niners advanced to the NFC Championship game with a 23-10 win over the Panthers. Again, the defenses of both of these teams are outstanding. I thought Kaepernick showed his experience yesterday and played a great game. He utilized his legs, arm and decision-making to make plays against a very good Carolina defense.
Niners running back Frank Gore pounded that Panther defense until the succumbed.
I think the Panthers offense needs to draft or sign some talented wide receivers to give Newton some targets. They have the defense to play with anybody, but their offense isn’t on the level to beat the Saints, Niners or Seahawks.
Chip Kelly and his coaching staff and Howie Roseman and the Eagles scouts will need to be brutally honest. They’ve got to ask some tough questions.
What kind of receivers are going to be able to get open against Richard Sherman and that tough Seahawks secondary? Can our defense stop Frank Gore and the Niners from running the ball down our throats?
Could Nick Foles throw the ball in that Seattle wind? Can Shady McCoy and our offensive line run the ball against the Seattle, San Francisco and Carolina defensive fronts?
Not only do the Eagles brain trust need to ask these questions, but the players must ask themselves questions and challenge themselves. If our offensive line can’t open up holes against the Saints, how do they expect to open holes against better defenses like the Seahawks, Niners and Panthers.
For the entire offseason, we here on GCobb.com are going to be talking about what the Eagles need to do to beat the Niners, Seahawks, Saints and Panthers. We’re going to talk about every facet of the football team in the decision-making and building process.
You can throw some of your ideas out there right now. What do the Eagles need to do to move up to the level of those four teams? Or what do the Birds need to do to become the best team in the NFC?
I disagree G, I don’t think the Saints are better then us and after watching the Panthers yesterday I know their not better then us. Us getting Macklin back and making some moves on D will put us top three next year, as for Seattle and San Fran, I see two QBs that manage a game but aren’t elite , how Wilson gets all this hype with average numbers he puts up is beyond me, were going to be a scary team next year and with the right moves this offseason, we will be in it all the way.
There’s no reason to think the Packers won’t be back next year behind Aaron Rodgers who is hands down the best QB in the NFC right now.
agreed btc. packers D blows but with rodgers & the emergence of lacy they will be in contention for some time. i think they are in a similar situation as we are, good offense with a horrid defense
Some good Points G-Man…
A couple of things to look at as the Landscape in the NFL changes from Year to Year but the Seahawks,49ers, Panthers & Saints are all positioned well to compete for the next couple of Season as are trhe Packers, Bears,Cardinals and the Rams if they ever get a QB..
49ers may lose some Top Assit Coach’s in DC Vic Fangio & OC Greg Roman . RB Gore has 1-2 more productive Seasons.. They have some Free-Agents to decide on, older CB’s, and aging DL..
Seahwaks have 6-7 Quality Players who are Free-Agents who may leave for more $$$ next Off-Season, they have the Suspensions of CB Browner/Thurmond to deal with.. WR’s Rice and Harvin both have history of injuries and cannot seem to stay healthy for an entire Season
Panthers have some age on Offense (WR Smith, LT J Gross, Older and used up RB’s in Williams,Stewart & Tolbert) they also have Issues at WR where Steve Smith is up there and LaFell & Ginn Jr are Free-Agents with no young Promising WR on their Roster..) On Defense, they has some Good Players up as Fre-Agents as DE Greg Hardy, Safety Mike Mitchell and has some Vetrans players on their last legs (DT Ron Edwards, CB Drayton Florence, Safety Q Mikell) so the Panthers are not all that young as many would think
Keep in mind what will happen to Sf, Car, Sea once they have to sign Kap, Wilson, Newton new contracts relatively soon. EVen though these guys are media overhyped game managers, the teams will be forced to give out big money to each. Those great defenses will get gutted due to the cap and hopefully the eagles can pick some of those players up. Once those defenses get gutted they will be much different teams unless they hit home runs again in the draft. But right now they all have pedestrian offenses and are great teams because their defenses are far superior than the norm.
The Saints are a soft team with their own cap issues coming up as well. Im not too worried about them even though they have great coaching on each side of the ball and a HOF QB is getting up there in age.
The Packers have the best QB in the league. They just have no defense. But they will always be in the mix when you have Rodgers.
Bears have lots of talent on offense but people are forgetting they were decimated on defense this year, they will be a tough team to beat in the future.
Lions have talent and I think they will be much better with a new Coach, their old coach was a complete joke.
peyton manning is the best qb in football bro and its not even close
Don’t fall asleep on the St Louis Rams who are my dark horse for a Playoff Team in 2014.. They need a QB, but have a lot of Young and Up and Coming Talent….
On Offense RB Stacy ,WR’s Austin,Stedman & Quick, TE Cook
On Defense DE Robert Quinn, DT M Brockers ,LB Ogletree, CB Janoris Jenkins & CB Trumaine Johnson
They get some QB play, another WR/TE and Safety, they are a solid Team
Also the Arizona Cardinals have a solid Nucleaus and had a nice 2013 Season with a lot of talented Players in their Primes… (Fitz,Campbell,Wilson,Dansby) and some young talent in WR M Floyd,Andre Roberts, TE R Housler and RB/Returnman A Ellington…
First, get a dominating pass rusher, with that addition alone you just upgraded your entire defense as the secondary is not nearly as exposed even if weak
Next, safety, then olb or big wideout with speed
Get rid of djax, addition by subtraction, he’s the last of the problem guys, but a huge destraction a nd I do not believe Kelly will tolerate him one bit so he’s gone
# ihatecarywilliams
http://mobile.philly.com/sports/eagles/?wss=/philly/sports/eagles&id=239499901
2 Jake Matthews OT Texas A&M
3 Teddy Bridgewater QB Louisville
4 Khalil Mack OLB Buffalo
5 Sammy Watkins WR Clemson
6 Derek Carr QB Fresno State
7 C.J. Mosley LB Alabama
8 Darqueze Dennard CB Michigan State
9 Greg Robinson OT Auburn
10 Cedric Ogbuehi OT Texas A&M
11 Louis Nix DT Notre Dame
12 Kelvin Benjamin WR Florida State
13 Mike Evans WR Texas A&M
14 Jason Verrett CB TCU
15 Anthony Barr OLB UCLA
16 Eric Ebron TE UNC
17 Vic Beasley DE Clemson
18 Jordan Matthews WR Vanderbilt
19 Cyril Richardson OG Baylor
20 Hesean Clinton-Dix S Alabama
21 Jace Amaro TE Texas Tech
22 Jeremiah Attaochu DE/OLB Georgia Tech
23 Timmy Jernigan DT Florida State
24 Ryan Shazier OLB Ohio State
25 Dominique Easley DT Florida
26 Brandin Cooks WR Oregon State
27 RaShede Hageman DT Minnesota
28 Taylor Lewan OT Michigan
29 Lamarcus Joyner DB Florida State
30 Kyle Van Noy OLB BYU
31 Marqise Lee WR USC
32 Stephon Tuitt DE Notre Dame
33 Justin Gilbert CB Oklahoma State
34 Allen Robinson WR Penn State
35 Deone Bucannon S Washington State
36 Blake Bortles QB UCF
37 Zach Martin OL Notre Dame
38 Dion Bailey S USC
39 Davante Adams WR Fresno State
40 Yawin Smallwood ILB UCONN
41 Austin Seferian-Jenkins TE Washington
42 Bradley Roby CB Ohio State
43 Shayne Skov LB Stanford
44 Lache Seastrunk RB Baylor
45 Trent Murphy DE Stanford
46 Gabe Jackson OG Mississippi State
47 Bishop Sankey RB Washington
48 Cyrus Kounadjio OL Alabama
Read more at http://www.philly.com/philly/sports/eagles/SBNation_20140109_2014_NFL_Draft__Top_50_Prospect_Rankings_Updated.html#A7ZzPU7TmzHrZXTj.99
I respectfully have to disagree with your assessment of us being top three next year. Maclin is not the answer. He is not physical and often falls to the ground to avoid a hit, and his blocking is non-existent. This team is three very good drafts and free agent signings away from super-bowl contention. I said super bowl contention not playoff. The thing that was most common for this weekend winner’s was the fact; everything was won up front. Meaning that the better offensive and defensive lines won the game. Denver, was the lone exception and I except them to get beat this weekend. However, their pass blocking was very good. With that being said I think the Eagles need to concentrate on that in the draft and free agency. I still think Linval Joseph would be a very good NT and Logan backing up.( With a off-season of lifting weights I expect him to get bigger.) They could draft McCullers 6’7″ 365 somewhere around the 4th round. He’s big but needs a lot of work. The ends will be Cox and a draft pick. I like Hageman 6’6″ 315. I doubt he’s around at 22 but if he is he’s my pick. What I’m getting at is we need to transition to the 34 and those three up front should be big and not be pushed around. Two moves and we already have solved a big problem for many years to come. Next the LB’s. Conner Barwin, Michael Kendricks stays, and for now Ryans can stay but everyone else can say bye-bye. Sign Michael Johnson from Cincinnati. He has been playing end but did start out at OLB. He’s 6’7″ and 275 lbs. He still runs a 4.7 40. He’s the outside pass rush we consistently don’t have right now. He can hold the edge too on outside running plays. According to the Bengals Weekly news letter it doesn’t look like they will re- sign him. Even if we don’t sign him we need a edge rusher and Cole, Graham are not it. ALL Db’s should be CUT. Just start over. Whatever suggestion is made is better than what we have. This will be the biggest challenge we have. It will also take the longest to fix. The O line can use a bigger center and right guard. We can draft wide receiver’s this year to really help us out in the near future. It usually takes a year or two for them to truly develop into pro receiver’s. I happen to like many but we have other needs in the early rounds of the draft. Cody Latimer from Indianna 6’3″ 215 with very good speed is one we should target in the middle rounds. Not only can he make the circus catch he might be the best blocker also. Very important in Chips offense. He reminds some of Hines Ward with speed. De’Anthony Thomas is the other guy they should draft. KR, RB, Slot WR. Super fast and tough as nails. I have more but I’m getting tired of writing. Here’s a couple of sleepers; Will Clarke, West Virginia I worked in WV. the last several months and saw this young man play several times. He’s 6’6″ 275lbs. DE. Very quick off the snap and plays to the whistle. Larry Webster lll. 6’6″ 240lbs and runs a4.65 40 He plays DE for Bloomsburg and I think he could play OLB He’s a Basketball player and decided to give football a shot in his senior year. Saw him against West Chester and he is serious. His father played 11 years in the NFL so the genes are their. He would make a good free agent pick-up and put on the IR for a year to lift weights and see what he’s got next year.
alwaysphilly, great post. I agree with everything you said. Although still raw, I love McCullers upside, & high ceiling. Get him in the 3rd-4th, & that would be golden. If Clarke has a good combine, his stock is going to jump. If someone doesn’t ridiculously overdraft De’Anthony Thomas, he should be there in the 5th, because he is small, & has no true position. But damn is he explosive. Joseph & Johnson, are both monsters, & both could be had. Joseph won’t command as much $$$$, as Johnson, although Johnson is coming off of a down year, & might not get a kings ransom. My ultimate off-season, would be, sign Byrd, Ward (doubt they get both), Joseph, Folk, & draft WR, DE/OLB, CB with our 1st 3 picks. Who I think they target, based off of recent comments by Chip & Howie, plus chips connections-
FS Jairus Byrd, SS James Ihedigbo (not a star, but much better than Connie Chung, Coleman, & Anderson), Linvale Joseph, veteran kicker with strong leg (Folk, Gano).
Draft
1st- DE Steven Tuitt- ND- 6’6″ 320.
2nd- WR Jordan Matthews- Vandy/ WR Allen Robinson- PSU- Both 6’3″ 205-210.
3rd- CB Terrance Mitchell- Oregon/ CB Louchiez Purifoy- Florida- Both 6’0″ 195.
4th- NT Daniel McCullers- Tennessee- 6’6″ 350.
5th(1)- OT Billy Turner- North Dakota State- 6’6″ 315.
5th(2)- De’Anthony Thomas- Oregon- 5’10″ (Lightning).
7th- OG Ryan Groy- Wisconsin- 6’5″ 325.
With possible trades, we can receive additional picks.
Seattle is going to fade now that the league is aware of the ridiculous steroid program they’ve been running. That’s all being dealt with behind the scenes, you’re going to see a 20 pound across the board weight loss for all Seattle players next year.
Carolina? Did anyone watch Cam Newton this weekend? Too bad they’re going to waste their great D with that guy behind centre.
Brees is now on the downside, so not too worried about the Saints.
DId Paulman mention Arizona? He does realize that’s Palmer at the helm right?
SF looks like they could be competitive for a bit, but they’re not going to win because Harbaugh is a dick.
What the Birds have going for them is that the NFC east looks like its on downswing. Washington is a Zoo, Manning is talking about retiring and the Giants will revolt on Coughlin if there’s another losing season. Dallas is going nowhere as long as Jerry is running the show.
If the Eagles pick up 5 freebies a year (a la New England the past decade) then they can roll to 10+ wins each year over the next decade….
Foles 24, McCoy 25, Cooper 26, Ertz 23, Johnson 23, the new OT they draft this year (22)…..that’s a nice young core for a decade.
Eagles
2014 NFL Mock Draft: Eagles Take A Pass Rusher
JCollacchi, SBNation
January 10, 2014 3:01 AM
Josh Collacchi and Mike Kaye take a look at the future and what the Eagles and the rest of the NFL could do in the 2014 draft.
After the first round of the playoffs have been completed, the draft order is slowly coming together. BGN’s Mike Kaye and Josh Collacchi examine the draft order as is at this instant. A lot will change by May, but the possibilities will likely remain the same. Most teams have similar draft needs, and this will show what the draft may bring.
Spoiler alert: The Eagles select 22nd, and no, it is not Johnny Football.
Team Selection School Expert Comment
1 Houston Texans QB Teddy Bridgewater Louisville Mike It is easy to go with Clowney here, but with an offensive mind like Bill O’Brien coming in, he is going to want to have his quarterback. It is really that simple.
2 St. Louis Rams (via WSH) OT Jake Matthews Texas A&M Josh Despite the best player on the board being Clowney, the Rams already have two very good defensive ends. Matthews is one of the best players in college football, and will be a good anchor for a long time.
3 Jacksonville Jaguars DE/OLB Jadeveon Clowney South Carolina Mike The Jaguars have needed a solid pass rusher for longer than they have needed a starting quarterback. Clowney can serve as the face of the franchise and is considered as close to a sure thing as you will find in this draft.
4 Cleveland Browns QB Derek Carr Fresno State Josh Whoever the new coach is in Cleveland, whether it be Ken Whisenhunt or someone else, the Browns need a quarterback. With Bridgewater gone, Derek Carr is the best available and is a great fit for Josh Gordon and Jordan Cameron.
5 Oakland Raiders QB Blake Bortles Central Florida Mike The Raiders have failed to settle on a quality quarterback since Rich Gannon and it has been the main reason for their lack of success. While Bortles is probably not worth this pick, the quarterbacks are dwindling with first-round talent. Offensive coordinator Greg Olsen is a former QBs coach and he will be good for Bortles development.
6 Atlanta Falcons OLB Khalil Mack Buffalo Josh Khalil Mack is the best defensive player not named Clowney in this draft, and has no real weaknesses. Mack will be a great add to a Falcons defense who has not been able to stop anyone. Look for Mack to be used in a Von Miller role where he can rush the passer, but also drops in coverage at times too.
7 Tampa Bay Buccaneers DE Kony Ealy Missouri Mike The Buccaneers absolutely need a pass rusher. Da’Quan Bowers has been a bust and they have been starting Daniel Te’o-Nesheim on the opposite side. With the Cover 2 serving as the basis for the Bucs defense, they need to have more power in their pressure department.
8 Minnesota Vikings QB Johnny Manziel Texas A&M Josh Johnny Football may be the most talked about draft prospect of all time, and the hype hasn’t even breached the surface yet. The Vikings get a mobile quarterback who can run around and make throws down the field. Sound familiar?
9 Buffalo Bills WR Sammy Watkins Clemson Mike Watkins is a solid wide receiver talent, and with the Bills possibly cutting Stevie Johnson, it will give Robert Woods a reliable starter across from him. Watkins is a versatile player that will open up the Bills offense for E.J. Manuel.
10 Detroit Lions CB Darqueze Dennard Michigan State Josh The Lions have a need at the wide receiver position, but seeing as this is one of the deepest classes at the position, the Lions get the top corner in this draft. Dennard can do everything on the field, and is an excellent fit for the Lions secondary. He will not be a combine star, but Dennard is a very good football player.
11 Tennessee Titans ILB C.J. Mosley Alabama Mike The middle linebacker position has been a back-and-forth between marginal talent like Moise Fokou and Colin McCarthy. Mosley will serve as a general of the Titans defense for the next 8-10 years.
12 New York Giants OT Greg Robinson Auburn Josh Robinson is an excellent run blocker, and is a mammoth of a himan being, and the Giants need just that. Eli Manning is at his best when the run game is working, and Robinson will be able to provide that. There is not much tape on his pass protection, but he fared well in the national championship in that department against a great Florida State defense.
13 St. Louis Rams CB Jason Verrett TCU Mike The Rams are likely to move on from Cortland Finnegan after an awful year and with the lack of guaranteed money in his deal. Verrett is younger and much more talented than Finnegan has been really. He and Janoris Jenkins could be a tandem for a long time.
14 Chicago Bears DT RaShede Hageman Minnesota Josh The Bears need help on defense, and it starts in the trenches. Hageman will be a big difference maker right away as he uses his huge frame to his advantage. Some compare him to Cardinals’ defensive lineman Calais Campbell, and although that may be unfair to Hageman, it certainly shows his ability.
15 Pittsburgh Steelers DE Stephon Tuitt Notre Dame Mike The Steelers need youth on their defensive front and Tuitt is their type of player. He is a mammoth man that can get pressure but is also solid against the run.
16 Baltimore Ravens WR Mike Evans Texas A&M Josh Joe Flacco struggled mightily this season without having a target he can throw jump balls to. Mike Evans is a monster of an offensive weapon, and can win at the point of the catch. Evans is young, but his potential and size is too much to pass on for the Ravens at 16.
17 Dallas Cowboys CB Justin Gilbert Oklahoma State Mike The Cowboys secondary is just awful and while injuries don’t help, they could move on from Brandon Carr and eventually Morris Claiborne, who have been busts since being acquired. Gilbert can play and is a solid prospect for the Cowboys as the Eagles continue to build more firepower on offense.
18 New York Jets WR Kelvin Benjamin Florida State Josh Kelvin Benjamin is nearly impossible to cover. At 6’5 and over 230 pounds, he uses his frame perfectly. Not to mention his ability in the red zone is second to none. A sure number one receiver for the New York Jets. Benjamin would be a top 15 pick if he was not 23 years old already.
19 Miami Dolphins OT Cyrus Kouandjio Alabama Mike The Dolphins clearly have issues at left tackle, right tackle and pretty much everywhere on their offensive line that isn’t manned by Mike Pouncey. Kouandjio is the best remaining tackle and will have to fill in right away.
20 Arizona Cardinals OLB Anthony Barr UCLA Josh Barr is as raw as prospects come, but with good coaching and his continued progression, he can be a very good player. With the talent around him, Barr could be a steal at 20 for Arizona.
21 Green Bay Packers TE Eric Ebron North Carolina Mike Wow! How did he last this long? This will open up the Packers offense even more and he has Jimmy Graham like talent. Ebron will be an elite tight end in this league.
22 Philadelphia Eagles OLB Vic Beasley Clemson Josh Vic Beasley is one of the better pass rushers in this draft. Other than Clowney, He has the best first step in this class, and always seems to be the first one moving on the field. This is a huge trait, and the Eagles need a consistent pass rusher. Safety is a need here as well, but a good one can be had in the second round.
23 Kansas City Chiefs LB Ryan Shazier Ohio State Mike This pick is out of the norm for Andy Reid, but the Chiefs really struggled down the stretch when they realized they didn’t have another inside linebacker next to Derrick Johnson. The injuries to Tamba Hali and Justin Houston didn’t help either. Shazier is talented and can be used in coverage and on inside blitzes.
24 Cincinnati Bengals CB Bradley Roby Ohio State Josh With the injuries the Bengals had at corner this season, and with Dre Kirkpatrick not being the player the Bengals thought, Bradley Roby becomes a target here. Roby has struggled at times, but has great athleticism and can be a good player with good coaching, which the Bengals have on the defensive side.
25 San Diego Chargers OT Cameron Erving Florida State Mike There is only so long you can go with King Dunlap as your left tackle. Erving has been stellar for Jameis Winston, so he definitely can block for Philip Rivers, who is enjoying a career revival.
26 New Orleans Saints OL Zach Martin Notre Dame Josh Martin can play four positions along the offensive line, and the Saints may need him to do so. Martin lacks “ideal” size to be a tackle, but he is very good at doing his job, as shown in the Irish’s bowl game. Expect him to start right away.
27 Cleveland Browns (via IND) WR Brandin Cooks Oregon State Mike Cooks is a versatile wide receiver with the ability to play the slot, the outside and return kicks and punts. He will be a great compliment to breakout star Josh Gordon and newly-drafted passer Derek Carr.
28 San Francisco 49ers WR Jordan Matthews Vanderbilt Josh The Niners need another big bodied receiver with Boldin being a free agent. Jordan Matthews is ready to play in the NFL right now as he has no real weaknesses. He can catch, run after the catch, block, and is a perfect fit in San Francisco.
29 New England Patriots WR Allen Robinson Penn State Mike A Bill O’Brien product going to a Bill Belichick-coached team just seems right. Robinson is a solid receiver that will give Tom Brady more options on the field. Julian Edelman could leave in free agency and Danny Amendola has been an injured mess since joining the Patriots
30 Carolina Panthers WR Marqise Lee USC Josh Lee has been listed as high as a top five pick early in the season, but poor quarterback play and his injury history has led him to fall. Lee is still a very good player, and can be an immediate starter in Carolina. He will soon be Cam Newton’s favorite target.
31 Denver Broncos C Travis Swanson Arkansas Mike After a revolving door at center this season, Peyton Manning can finally have a guy that he can depend on.
32 Seattle Seahawks OG Cyril Richardson Baylor Josh Richardson is the best pure guard in the draft, and it is not close. He is a huge individual and is a dominant run-blocker. Richardson will be an immediate starter, and a pro bowler in a few seasons. The rich get richer, and the Seahawks offense gets a great player.
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Eagles
2014 NFL Mock Draft: Eagles Take A Pass Rusher
JCollacchi, SBNation
January 10, 2014 3:01 AM
Josh Collacchi and Mike Kaye take a look at the future and what the Eagles and the rest of the NFL could do in the 2014 draft.
After the first round of the playoffs have been completed, the draft order is slowly coming together. BGN’s Mike Kaye and Josh Collacchi examine the draft order as is at this instant. A lot will change by May, but the possibilities will likely remain the same. Most teams have similar draft needs, and this will show what the draft may bring.
Spoiler alert: The Eagles select 22nd, and no, it is not Johnny Football.
Team Selection School Expert Comment
1 Houston Texans QB Teddy Bridgewater Louisville Mike It is easy to go with Clowney here, but with an offensive mind like Bill O’Brien coming in, he is going to want to have his quarterback. It is really that simple.
2 St. Louis Rams (via WSH) OT Jake Matthews Texas A&M Josh Despite the best player on the board being Clowney, the Rams already have two very good defensive ends. Matthews is one of the best players in college football, and will be a good anchor for a long time.
3 Jacksonville Jaguars DE/OLB Jadeveon Clowney South Carolina Mike The Jaguars have needed a solid pass rusher for longer than they have needed a starting quarterback. Clowney can serve as the face of the franchise and is considered as close to a sure thing as you will find in this draft.
4 Cleveland Browns QB Derek Carr Fresno State Josh Whoever the new coach is in Cleveland, whether it be Ken Whisenhunt or someone else, the Browns need a quarterback. With Bridgewater gone, Derek Carr is the best available and is a great fit for Josh Gordon and Jordan Cameron.
5 Oakland Raiders QB Blake Bortles Central Florida Mike The Raiders have failed to settle on a quality quarterback since Rich Gannon and it has been the main reason for their lack of success. While Bortles is probably not worth this pick, the quarterbacks are dwindling with first-round talent. Offensive coordinator Greg Olsen is a former QBs coach and he will be good for Bortles development.
6 Atlanta Falcons OLB Khalil Mack Buffalo Josh Khalil Mack is the best defensive player not named Clowney in this draft, and has no real weaknesses. Mack will be a great add to a Falcons defense who has not been able to stop anyone. Look for Mack to be used in a Von Miller role where he can rush the passer, but also drops in coverage at times too.
7 Tampa Bay Buccaneers DE Kony Ealy Missouri Mike The Buccaneers absolutely need a pass rusher. Da’Quan Bowers has been a bust and they have been starting Daniel Te’o-Nesheim on the opposite side. With the Cover 2 serving as the basis for the Bucs defense, they need to have more power in their pressure department.
8 Minnesota Vikings QB Johnny Manziel Texas A&M Josh Johnny Football may be the most talked about draft prospect of all time, and the hype hasn’t even breached the surface yet. The Vikings get a mobile quarterback who can run around and make throws down the field. Sound familiar?
9 Buffalo Bills WR Sammy Watkins Clemson Mike Watkins is a solid wide receiver talent, and with the Bills possibly cutting Stevie Johnson, it will give Robert Woods a reliable starter across from him. Watkins is a versatile player that will open up the Bills offense for E.J. Manuel.
10 Detroit Lions CB Darqueze Dennard Michigan State Josh The Lions have a need at the wide receiver position, but seeing as this is one of the deepest classes at the position, the Lions get the top corner in this draft. Dennard can do everything on the field, and is an excellent fit for the Lions secondary. He will not be a combine star, but Dennard is a very good football player.
11 Tennessee Titans ILB C.J. Mosley Alabama Mike The middle linebacker position has been a back-and-forth between marginal talent like Moise Fokou and Colin McCarthy. Mosley will serve as a general of the Titans defense for the next 8-10 years.
12 New York Giants OT Greg Robinson Auburn Josh Robinson is an excellent run blocker, and is a mammoth of a himan being, and the Giants need just that. Eli Manning is at his best when the run game is working, and Robinson will be able to provide that. There is not much tape on his pass protection, but he fared well in the national championship in that department against a great Florida State defense.
13 St. Louis Rams CB Jason Verrett TCU Mike The Rams are likely to move on from Cortland Finnegan after an awful year and with the lack of guaranteed money in his deal. Verrett is younger and much more talented than Finnegan has been really. He and Janoris Jenkins could be a tandem for a long time.
14 Chicago Bears DT RaShede Hageman Minnesota Josh The Bears need help on defense, and it starts in the trenches. Hageman will be a big difference maker right away as he uses his huge frame to his advantage. Some compare him to Cardinals’ defensive lineman Calais Campbell, and although that may be unfair to Hageman, it certainly shows his ability.
15 Pittsburgh Steelers DE Stephon Tuitt Notre Dame Mike The Steelers need youth on their defensive front and Tuitt is their type of player. He is a mammoth man that can get pressure but is also solid against the run.
16 Baltimore Ravens WR Mike Evans Texas A&M Josh Joe Flacco struggled mightily this season without having a target he can throw jump balls to. Mike Evans is a monster of an offensive weapon, and can win at the point of the catch. Evans is young, but his potential and size is too much to pass on for the Ravens at 16.
17 Dallas Cowboys CB Justin Gilbert Oklahoma State Mike The Cowboys secondary is just awful and while injuries don’t help, they could move on from Brandon Carr and eventually Morris Claiborne, who have been busts since being acquired. Gilbert can play and is a solid prospect for the Cowboys as the Eagles continue to build more firepower on offense.
18 New York Jets WR Kelvin Benjamin Florida State Josh Kelvin Benjamin is nearly impossible to cover. At 6’5 and over 230 pounds, he uses his frame perfectly. Not to mention his ability in the red zone is second to none. A sure number one receiver for the New York Jets. Benjamin would be a top 15 pick if he was not 23 years old already.
19 Miami Dolphins OT Cyrus Kouandjio Alabama Mike The Dolphins clearly have issues at left tackle, right tackle and pretty much everywhere on their offensive line that isn’t manned by Mike Pouncey. Kouandjio is the best remaining tackle and will have to fill in right away.
20 Arizona Cardinals OLB Anthony Barr UCLA Josh Barr is as raw as prospects come, but with good coaching and his continued progression, he can be a very good player. With the talent around him, Barr could be a steal at 20 for Arizona.
21 Green Bay Packers TE Eric Ebron North Carolina Mike Wow! How did he last this long? This will open up the Packers offense even more and he has Jimmy Graham like talent. Ebron will be an elite tight end in this league.
22 Philadelphia Eagles OLB Vic Beasley Clemson Josh Vic Beasley is one of the better pass rushers in this draft. Other than Clowney, He has the best first step in this class, and always seems to be the first one moving on the field. This is a huge trait, and the Eagles need a consistent pass rusher. Safety is a need here as well, but a good one can be had in the second round.
23 Kansas City Chiefs LB Ryan Shazier Ohio State Mike This pick is out of the norm for Andy Reid, but the Chiefs really struggled down the stretch when they realized they didn’t have another inside linebacker next to Derrick Johnson. The injuries to Tamba Hali and Justin Houston didn’t help either. Shazier is talented and can be used in coverage and on inside blitzes.
24 Cincinnati Bengals CB Bradley Roby Ohio State Josh With the injuries the Bengals had at corner this season, and with Dre Kirkpatrick not being the player the Bengals thought, Bradley Roby becomes a target here. Roby has struggled at times, but has great athleticism and can be a good player with good coaching, which the Bengals have on the defensive side.
25 San Diego Chargers OT Cameron Erving Florida State Mike There is only so long you can go with King Dunlap as your left tackle. Erving has been stellar for Jameis Winston, so he definitely can block for Philip Rivers, who is enjoying a career revival.
26 New Orleans Saints OL Zach Martin Notre Dame Josh Martin can play four positions along the offensive line, and the Saints may need him to do so. Martin lacks “ideal” size to be a tackle, but he is very good at doing his job, as shown in the Irish’s bowl game. Expect him to start right away.
27 Cleveland Browns (via IND) WR Brandin Cooks Oregon State Mike Cooks is a versatile wide receiver with the ability to play the slot, the outside and return kicks and punts. He will be a great compliment to breakout star Josh Gordon and newly-drafted passer Derek Carr.
28 San Francisco 49ers WR Jordan Matthews Vanderbilt Josh The Niners need another big bodied receiver with Boldin being a free agent. Jordan Matthews is ready to play in the NFL right now as he has no real weaknesses. He can catch, run after the catch, block, and is a perfect fit in San Francisco.
29 New England Patriots WR Allen Robinson Penn State Mike A Bill O’Brien product going to a Bill Belichick-coached team just seems right. Robinson is a solid receiver that will give Tom Brady more options on the field. Julian Edelman could leave in free agency and Danny Amendola has been an injured mess since joining the Patriots
30 Carolina Panthers WR Marqise Lee USC Josh Lee has been listed as high as a top five pick early in the season, but poor quarterback play and his injury history has led him to fall. Lee is still a very good player, and can be an immediate starter in Carolina. He will soon be Cam Newton’s favorite target.
31 Denver Broncos C Travis Swanson Arkansas Mike After a revolving door at center this season, Peyton Manning can finally have a guy that he can depend on.
32 Seattle Seahawks OG Cyril Richardson Baylor Josh Richardson is the best pure guard in the draft, and it is not close. He is a huge individual and is a dominant run-blocker. Richardson will be an immediate starter, and a pro bowler in a few seasons.
jesus christ smitty
WTF!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! We can read other articles & sites just fine gloomy. No need for the jon hart article copy & pastes!
Your still running you mouth? You never just leave things alone. And for your information, I don’t copy and paste anything I put on this site, ever. Learn how to grow up DCar.. Can’t act like a kid forever.. A grown man writing “WTF” or “GTFOH”??.. Arent you like 45? Reality check old man..
Telling me to grow up & get a reality check???? Says the delusional retard, that gives us updates, from “just ins”, “From my sources”, by plagiarizing all other news sources, by copying & pasting their stories! You get lost, & I’ll leave things alone, when you do so! BTW, this old man, will give you the rightful @$$whopping you Daddy never gave you. If you would have kept your pie hole shut a few years ago, with your incessant stupidity, retarded idiocy, & Lebron @$$ smooching, I wouldn’t constantly break your balls. If you don’t like it, too bad, get used to it, or go away!
Another thing, little boy, I don’t come on here to crave attention & credit, by quoting I have unknown sources, to stories, & rumors, that have already been quoted on other sites, twitter, & WIP! Because I’m not a sad little wannabe man, that has no life, like you! So go back into hiding like your other ball-less girlfriends, schiller, navy, godgotvick, reggio, & the other frauds, who can’t deal with reality! Grow some pubes, & learn how to deal with real men, before you come at me. But I suppose you can’t & will just resort to calling me nick names/ name calling, like Freddy Mitchell, trash-man, fraudman, Bron-Bron, or some other nonsensical, verbal diarrhea, that you are soooo infamous for. Go away!
Grow up
TeamHurnt, if you don’t know what, & why things are going on, mind your business, & don’t get involved in something that doesn’t concern you. There is a great reason, why he gets the treatment he does.
Dude seriously?
I agree, but I also think the Colts are a player or two away from being a “Beastmode” team.
The Eagles have to start looking at getting a legitimate fullback on the team to get the lead power blocking out in front Shady needs to get to the second level against teams that have slowed him down this year versus solely relying on pullers and other O-line tactics. Henry Hynoski is a restricted free agent and the Giants are probably only going to want to pay the league minimum due to replacing him after his shoulder injury. The birds should descend on that opportunity. When healthy Hynoski is one of the best if not the best fullback in the league and can catch at least as many passes Joe Casey saw this past season. Bruce Miller from the 49ers, also injured, will be available as an unrestricted free agent this offseason. Miller is just a raw power fullback where Hynoski brings some ability to get down field, but either would be a great upgrade for the Eagles offense if they can stay healthy.
For all the praise that has been lavished on Jaycen Kelse his lack of size makes him the weak link of the interior of the line that can’t get any push to save their lives against some bigger, stronger and/or craftier front sevens. I’d like to see the Eagles draft a bigger stronger center, especially since we know Vick won’t be a starter here and OL height isn’t going to be a sight line issue for the QB.
It will be great if the Eagles can get a pass rushing LB out of the draft, but it would make more sense to keep Cole and Graham while drafting an athletic OLB that can cover while letting more natural pass rushers get after the QB more often.
The first Eagles pick in the draft should be used on a CB if that’s the best available player on the board and it seems like that may be the likely scenario. The remainder of the draft should be used to address the defensive backfield and reserve players.
I still want to see Ifeanyi Momah get a chance this time around and a roster spot since they just re-signed him. It’s likely Momah could have made the team at some point during the 2013 season had he been kept on the practice squad. His athleticism, even with the few times he was targeted, was more than noticeable he went from trying to cradle his catches in his body to picking them out of the air and digging them up from below his knees. I’d also like to see the Eagles sign Ramses Barden another giant WR…no pun intended. Barden is not the speed freak Momah is, but his experience and ability to grab a number of less than perfectly located passes make him an asset and a red zone target. Having two 6’6″+ WR available should help with passing against the taller CBs that keep showing up in the league, they should help against shorter CBs, they should help with down field blocking and they should help in the red zone.
Here’s Paulman’s Plan to Updrafe the Eagles
Eagles Currently sitting approx 19 Million under the $126 Million Team Salary Cap for 2014
I would Cut/Release the Following Players and get rid of the 2014 Salary
1) Safety – Pat Chung – $3.25 Million
2) Guard – Todd Herremans – $4.2 Million
3) OLB – Brandon Graham – $3.4 Million
4) WR – Jason Avant – $3.96 Million
5) WR – Aurellious Benn – $1 Million
These Cuts would total up approx $15 Million to go along with the $19 Million already under th eCap for a Total of Apprx $34 Million going into 2014
I would also ask for Contract Restructures on the following Players Current Contracts to reduce their Salary and if not accepted, then would flat out Release them
1) OLB Trent Cole (Due $6.6 Million in 2014 , then $11 Million in 2015 , then $12 Millin in 2016
2) TE James Casey (Due $3.98 Million in 2014, then $4 MIllion in 2015)
Once this is complet – Eagles would have at least $36-$37 under the Cap
and then would Pursue the Following Free-Agents to replace the Released Players
Own Free-Agents – Sign R Cooper, J Maclin,Cedric Thorton and Nate Allen
but not to any crazy long term deals — Maclin & Allen on 1 Year Deals
Cooper/Thornton on 3-4 Year Deals
I offer no Deals to M Vick, P Hunt, K Coleman, C Anderson & G Geathers and let them all walk
Then I go out and Attempt to Sign the Following Free-Agents in March
Safety – TJ Ward (Browns or Mike Mitchell (Panthers)
DT – Linval Joseph (Giants) or Andre Fluellen (Lions)
DE – Michael Benntt (Seahawks or Arthur Jones (Ravens)
CB – Walt Thurmond (Seahawks) or Nolan Carrol (Miami)
Guard – Jon Asamoah (Chiefs) or Geoff Schwartz (Chiefs)
QB – Thaddeous Lewis (Buffalo)
Then come Draft Time
I am Drafting a OLB, Safety, ILB,WR and TE (depending if Casey is still around) and then addressing OL & DL & LB for Depth with late Round Picks …
I would add an ILB and move Mychal Kendricks to OLB as strictly a Pass-Rusher and make a bee-lne to th backfield on every play whethers its a Running or Passing Down…
Player
Team
Position
Age
Status
1. Jimmy Graham
NO
TE
28
2. Greg Hardy
CAR
DE
26
3. Michael Johnson
CIN
DE
27
4. T.J. Ward
CLE
S
27
5. Jairus Byrd
BUF
S
27
F
6. Alterraun Verner
TEN
CB
25
7. Brian Orakpo
WAS
OLB
28
8. Henry Melton
CHI
DT
27
F
9. Eugene Monroe
BAL
OT
27
10. Jared Veldheer
OAK
OT
27
11. Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie
DEN
CB
29
12. Randy Starks
MIA
DT
30
13. Lamarr Houston
OAK
DE
27
14. Jason Worilds
PIT
OLB
26
15. Aqib Talib
NE
CB
28
16. Eric Decker
DEB
WR
27
17. Jason Hatcher
DAL
DT
32
18. Michael Bennett
SEA
DE
28
19. Dennis Pitta
BAL
TE
29
20. Alex Mack
CLE
C
28
21. Captain Munnerlyn
CAR
CB
26
22. Knowshon Moreno
DEN
RB
27
23. Brent Grimes
MIA
CB
31
24. Brandon Spikes
NE
ILB
26
25. Branden Albert
KC
OT
29
F
26. Jordan Gross
CAR
OT
34
27. Vontae Davis
IND
CB
26
28. Hakeem Nicks
NYG
WR
26
29. Golden Tate
SEA
WR
26
30. Paul Soliai
MIA
DT
30
31. Sam Shields
GB
CB
26
32. Arthur Jones
BAL
DE
28
33. Linval Joseph
NYG
DT
25
34. Zach Strief
NO
OT
30
35. Walter Thurmond
SEA
CB
26
36. Justin Tuck
NYG
DE
31
37. Tyson Jackson
KC
DE
28
38. Anthony Spencer
DAL
DE
30
39. Donte Whitner
SF
S
29
40. Antonio Smith
HOU
DE
32
41. Chris Clemons
MIA
S
28
42. Jon Asamoah
KC
OG
26
43. Jeremy Maclin
PHI
WR
26
44. Ben Tate
HOU
RB
26
45. Rodger Saffold
STL
OT
26
46. Geoff Schwartz
KC
G
27
47. Julian Edelman
NE
WR
28
48. Michael Vick
PHI
QB
34
49. Karlos Dansby
ARI
LB
32
50. Jared Allen
MIN
DE
32
Dude (gloomysmitty) you could have just posted a link…
Lol
Vinnie, this has to be your post ever:
“SF looks like they could be competitive for a bit, but they’re not going to win because Harbaugh is a dick.”
Is that,
“Vinnie, this has to be your BEST post ever.”
or
“Vinnie, this has to be your WORST post ever.”
I’m hoping for best.
G…I totally agree. Was just thinking last night after the Niner/Panther game that all these teams in the NFC Final Four have outstanding defense. Being 29th is not going to get it no matter how good the offense is. That’s why we need to get FS straight. The draft is thin on safeties and the FS is the new MLB on NFL defenses. We have to shell out for Ward or Byrd. There is simply no choice. We also need more pass rush and a bigger NT.
Also, most of our safeties are FA’s The other two under contract consist of an unproven rookie and another vet that absolutely sucks. Wolff needs to be paired with a vet and I think he can be solid. You can’t put Wolff out there with a rookie and expect him to play as well.
Good point jbird. Let’s hope Byrd or Ward even hit the FA market.
If I’m the eagles I sign Maclin to a 1year deal with a option for 2more years that way if he comes back and plays well they still got him under contract better than signing him to a 1yr deal and him killing it and then the eagles are in the same boat next year trying to sign him
Seems like Maclin gets screwed on that because if he doesn’t perform well, the Eagles would cut him anyway and if he has a great season, he’ll be getting paid at a discounted rate.
Maclin has missed 21 of his 80 NFL Games in his 5 Year Carrier (26% of his Games) and He is in little postion to accept more than a 1 Year Prove It Deal.. If he ends up having a big Season in 2014, then he can command bigger $$$ the following Off-Season, I just don’t see the Eagles giving him a 3-4 Year Deal with his history of Injuries,Illness, etc,etc..
He obviously needs to stay Healthy and will be highly motivated to prove his worth on a 1 Yea Deal for if it’s not for th Eagles, he can make his $$$ eldwhere is he produces in 2014.. Another injury or lackluster Season in 2014, then his Career is probably nothing more than a back-up veteran WR around the NFL…
Trade desean “boney james” Jackson and get a big time WR that can beat press coverage and man to man coverage. Jackson like his father, Andy Reid only excels against bums…
Coach Kelly said “big people beat up little people”. We will replace connie chung at safety and get rid of trent ” I play 4 good games a year” cole and gram cracker at linebacker. 2 more bums taking up space.
Carolina, San Fag cisco, New Orleans, and Seattle all have fast big linebackers. We have had years to learn how to cover Jason Witten and that moron andy greed, placed no value on linebackers. bring in a stud to go with number 95. He’s going to be a beast.
draft
1. hard hitting safety
2. athletic fast LB that can cover TEs
3. Big SEC WR from LSU, GA, AL or FL or FSU
4. OG
5. Fat Seragusa NT (run stuffer)
6. Running QB
7. OT
Trade desean “I want more money” Jackson for a secondary help.
Keep Vick to back up Foles.
Don’t forget that Vick did not throw ints with the eagles until he got the big contract. now that he knows chip kelly “don’t play turn overs” he’ll protect the football just like bryce brown learned to. Turnovers = the bench. Chip has the discipline to do it.
Fat Boy just made excuses like “I’ve got to do a better job of putting the players in a possition to win” All except the kicker. He threw Akers under the bus…
You lost me at keep Vick?!?!?!? No f^#@ing way I want that circus back here EVER again!
2 “Thumbs up” Dcar. I will miss Marcus Tweeting though…another Mensa member
LOL!!!!
LOL…But It was only a Circus for you guys here @ GCobb.com
my brother is sending me the KC playoff loss on dvd. I can’t wait to watch the pass-a-holic wilt under pressure, just one more time. 14 wasted years…
Poor kansas city fans…they actually thought they had a football coach…9-0 start never fooled me…the man has no heart…school yard bully…Fat with no real self esteem…a loser…He is the perfect fit for college….just build a program…and go to a bowl game every year, with no real playoffs…that’s where andy greed should go…coach a college team and go to a bowl game. get out of the nfl where fans deserve a championship after 14 years…
They can add incentives to maclins deal so that he is able to make more money in years2-3
Great stuff bsmvideo
Get rid of puny ass Jackson a punk and way overrated
He’s not Foles number one target
He’s not worth the money or the consternation he brings
Chip will get rid of him
I was sitting in the 12th row during the playoff game watching DJax the whole time. You could see he wanted no part of playing football in that cold. He didn’t take his hands out of his pockets even when starting to lineup. He wasn’t fighting to get the ball like Cooper or other guys were. If you were at the game you could notice his demeanor from the first play. All that dude wanted was some hot chocolate and a blanket.
He had a great year no doubt about that. But when you see these big tough physical guys go after it on every play like Boldin and Crabtree did in ice cold greenbay, Ward did in Pittsburgh all those years, or even like Cooper did in philly in the playoff game, Djax can get on your nerves.
This isn’t Malibu. The bigger the game is here, the colder its going to be and we need some straight up lunatics who aren’t going to let the cold get to them mentally.
The only thing I can say about some of the absurdity posted here is to say that the best way to take two steps back is focus on fixing on things that aren’t broken…
These cats kill me Butch and you hit the nail right on the head.
Indeed. I for one have hated on Djax in the past, but the dude DID just have a career year and the team DID just break all sorts of records on offense. Spend time (and cap and draft picks) on the defense, not the skill positions.
Only redneck hillbillies can criticize a man coming off the 2nd best receiving numbers in the history of the franchiseDJAX congratulations now that Mike Vick is gone you are nominated the next black athlete to be run out of town by the redneck hillbillies. DJax heres are warning. It doesn’t matter that you are one of 2 pro bowl receiver in the last 30 years here, lol, they don’t care you talk a little different, makes the white folk nervous. Shady dont worry your time is coming to.
Daggolden, Were you at the playoff game? My guess is No. DJax cant be criticized? get the fuck out of here with that nonsense. The dude wasn’t trying in the playoff game. Were talking about the fucking playoffs, and he wanted no part of being out there. I will criticize any player white/or black for not going 100% just because it is cold in the biggest fucking game of the year. So take your redneck hillbilly shit elsewhere. I bet you couldn’t afford my season tickets. Keep watching on tv and pretend you know everything. Cant criticize a guy for going 100% in a playoff game because its too cold only cause he played great in the regular season? most retarded thing I ever heard on here. were talking about the playoffs
Biglion, Kelly is not going to throw his players under the bus in the media right after the game. Wake up and stop being so oblivious for once. Like I said to Dag above, were you at the game? I bet you weren’t either. Djax was not in that game the first half. Everyone could tell in the audience. His body language said enough before and during the snaps.
So please get the fuck out of here in saying the dude cant be criticized when he doesn’t go 100% effort in a fucking playoff game (btw same guy that straight up admitted he wasn’t going 100% for the team in the past).
Any objective Eagles fan knows Djax is a fair weather player.
The QB took him out of the game but I shouldn’t have to tell you that you were there right? So I guess it was DJax fault we lost, it’s not even about black or white it’s about stupid. Look at the all 22 films and then come back and explain why Kelly said the plays were there for DJax the ball just didn’t come out. I guess he’s full of shit too.
I cant argue with someone that goes off what NFL coaches say to the media. Really NFL coaches aren’t full of shit when they talk? Jesus Christ man are you drunk…Thats laughable. And I don’t need to explain anything. I was 30 feet away from the guy, he wasn’t into the game for parts of the first half. He is a fair weather player.
Foles and SHady did not have their best games either but I never questioned their effort in that game and thats all Im talking about. Qbs are also going to look for guys who are fighting every second to make a play. Not receivers who have their hands in the pockets the majority of the time.
All I said was that I want them to have a guy who is physical and tough like a Boldin/Ward type. People on here can go ahead and call me racist names like a give a shit for wanting that (instead of the soft take plays off WRs) even tho it makes no sense at all. I just think you need that type of attitude in your WR when you play in cold Philly playoff games to be successful. Never said i was trading Djax for a 5 dollar bill or cutting him.
So why did he throw that jump ball up to DJax in the 3rd quarter that he went up and caught? And why would the coach mention plays were there ball didn’t come out? So please DJax and roll Foles under the bus? Your right about one thing you can’t argue with people who see what they want to. Got a better one for you if DJax would have dropped that pass that Cooper did you idiots would still be on this board talking about that.
Dag, Funny thing aint it? How cats want DJAX out of town for wanting more money…after putting up the numbers he did this season…and helping Cooper have the season he had…It even more infuriates me that cats all call DJAX out for his comments about wanting money, but Coopers comments were just brushed under the F’n rug. It can’t even be mentioned on these boards…excuse being he made a mistake and let it go…
As I’ve been protesting for quite some time, use the same logic in judging ALL players.
the two things arent the same nor close to the same idiot.
nobody swept coopers comments under the rug , nationally its still talked about all the time and will continue to be talked about.
and NOBODY wants desean out of town because he wants more money, everyone in the world wants more money. they want him gone because HE QUIT ON THE EAGLES AND THEIR FANS over money and people are scared he will do it again.
on another note i guarantee one of the reasons you got beat up daily when you were a kid was because you were a geek who thought they were cool and used words like cat 800,000 times a day and all the dudes would be you up clown you and all the girls would laugh at you for being such a tool.
Exactly their not close to the same…DJAX siituation is far as less serious as Cooper’s was….But yea, wish DJAX out of town……
MeHeShe…and I’m the one that calls names and run around acting immature, yea ok…this clown…..
But again if you think I got beat up daily meet me at that park, I provided you the location…
I’d pay money to meet you at a neutral location so you can run your mouth the way you do here in person
Much better than your upbringing…Growing up not knowing if your a boy or a girl…must of been very confusing for you…MeHeShe
Also may be your view is he quit…but some others are upset because they say DJAX talking about contract, the timing was selfish, yada yada yada…
You’re dumb ass don’t speak for everybody! Nor was I talking to you to begin with.
He Quit? by who’s F’n standards did he quit? you sound like a 100% Grade A dumb fuck!
Its funny that you guys get DJAX quit, by watching the game on TV or in the stands…Its funny how its all DJAX’s fault now…
HE QUIT BASED ON EVERYONES STANDARDS YA IDIOT. In a contract year he pouted all year, acted like a jerk off at camp to fans, coaches, and reporters. He skipped countless meetings leading to a benching, benched in the Pats games for lack of effort talking shit to coach, many times in 2011 he would just jog on routes and not even try to block on run plays. many times he just stopped in the middle of running a route in 2011 to avoid a potential hit.
We’re talking about now…this year…today…a season where he put up career numbers idiot…not 2-3 season ago, you dumb bastard!
yea its pretty obvious when someone quits on a play on tv, its pretty obvious you quit on your team when you get benched for not hustling and not going to meetings.
nothing is all djaxs fault now. im just explaining why “cats” (dork speak) dont like desean and are scared of him complaining about money (which by the way he is not currently)
dont get it twisted though realcat djax is phenomenal this year and did everything right, will be back, i want him back, and think he will continue to dominate for us for years to come.
i hope this cat squeezes every penny out of the nfl that he can and doesnt get robbed for it all or blow it on this idiotic non profitable record label
no shit ya idiot. cant ya read. im trying to explain to your hamburger brain why some felines dont like him now. its because of 2011. do you comprehend hamburger brains?
LMAO!!!!
I had to come off my posting hiatus to lol at this. HILARIOUS!!!
So true it’s sad. But SOOOOO funny.
One thing is proven you don’t need a QB with great statistics to be a great team. When Seattle or SF roll into Metlife stadium there QB will not have thrown for 7 tds in a game, there QB will not have thrown for 50 plus tds or 5000 yards, nope that shit don’t matter. If it went on statistics Peyton would have 8 SB rings. You just need a QB who can make some plays down the stretch. Build your defense Eagles. The only hope the AFC has is if NE goes to the bowl and the greatest coach of my lifetime(Belichek) has the opportunity to figure something out vs SF or Seattle. Thats the only hope for the AFC.
You’re on it today.
I’m chuckling to myself as I watch two “mobile” QBs compete for the big dance and have a real shot at knocking off one of the HOFers at QB.
Should be fun.
Darn those “mobile” QBs and their shitty play. Getting them all the way t the Superbowl and shit.
How bout that cam newton?
I’m sure IrishEagle is gonna blame me for this Cam Newton reference. lol
Not criticizing. Just pointing out the facts. Desean is not Foles’ #1 guy anymore.
This is probably due to the lack of effort Desean displayed in the Dallas game, then reinforced with the lack of effort on the interception and subsequent not trying to tackle the guy who made the int. This was all seen by Foles in the film room.
Why would anyone be suprised that He’d be looking for Cooper and Ertz or other players who give their all every play?
But it also may just be because of the type of QB Foles is. He’s going to spread the ball around.
Over Foles 10 starts (incl playoffs) Both Desean and Cooper each had 2 100+ yrd games. They had a similar amount of catches (Desean ahead because of Det game)Both had 2 70-80 yrd games. Both had 6 games under 60 yrds. TDs were 7 to 6 for Cooper.
Foles is going to spread the ball around to everyone….you’re not going to see the ‘locked in’ business we saw the first 2 weeks with the former starting QB.
So I don’t Desean is irreplaceable….The kid can be a dynamic player – no one is taking that away from the guy….but he takes plays/games off. And he doesn’t always give max effort.
I have no idea why he still gets put back there for punt returns as all he does is wave his arm in the air.
I am very worried that we’ll have another year of whining about the contract, and we all know what a disaster that was a couple years back.
I don’t think Kelly will put up with it….we’ll see…….but I do think Desean is in a precarious position – not because of his obvious talent – but because of his unwillingness to always use it – unless he seems to want to.
LOL and Kelly won’t put with his QB ignoring his best game breaking threat, if DJax takes plays off and only performs when he wants to, I think that would show up in the film room for all to see. As a matter of fact after the Saints loss Kelly said that DJax was open númerous times but the ball didn’t come out and before you say it’s because Foles doesn’t trust him. Remember who won that game.
It does show up in the film room. You can bet Kelly saw the attitude in the Dallas game, the Det effore, and that the arm is in the air usually before the punter has made contact with the ball. He’s seen that…..we’ll see what happens because of it.
So what are you saying with the “Kelly won;t put up with his QB ignoring….” comment (and you would like that wouldn;t you….any reason to oust Foles)?
Desean ‘has’ to be the #1 WR? He always has to be the first option?
Because he isn’t. Not for Foles anyway.
I don;t think Kelly will give a flying fuck if its Cooper, or Ertz, or Desean or some new guy Foles throws to as long as he keeps leading the O to points like he did all this year.
Funny though….you’re always on here with the Exclamation marks (!!!) for other Qbs, whilst continually downgrading Foles achievements and saying he can’t so “other things”….yet here you are….right to the defense of a guy who has (on several occasions) given up on his team.
A guy who, clearly, based on his size cannot do “other things” that other WRs can (block, fade routes).
But he’s perfect in your book. He’s a “game changer”
You sure do love the inconsistent types who, as long as they make one highlight play every few weeks, are good in your books.
Vinnie are you in love with Foles? Let me explain it this way. All QB’s leave plays on the field, even the great ones is that why that game was lost? Nope the defense makes one stop and they move on. Not every comment is a slight against your man love. I said it before I’ll say it again game manager, franchise QB doesn’t matter the best thing about Foles is now they can address areas of need and not waste another pick on a QB. Try to be more objective and less obsessive might work for you.
Good work Big. Defense is what wins in the NFC. Look at the 4 best teams. SF, Seattle Carolina and Saints (much improved defense). Have to focus on shoring up the defense in FA and the draft.
4 Things in Common with all 4 Teams your mentioned..
Strong up the Middle— BIg NT’s, Big, Physical, Athletic LB’s and Good Physical Safeties..
Eagles need to get tougher in the middle of their Defense..
Enough with the whining and crying of DJAX . Enough with the complaining about what he does in his personal time. What’s this about his size….so what, Chicago has two of the biggest receivers and they are a great tandem. Where are they at now? The Bears didn’t even make it into the playoffs. Stop with the DJAX hang ups. Is he taken out of some games? Yes, however, wasn’t the Bears receivers and Jimmy Graham taken out of the game against the Eagles? Yes. The man produces on the field…and as a fan that’s all we should be concerned about. He’s not hurting people off of the field and committing illegal acts. Stop being the moral police judging this guy.Some Philly fans has become so upper crust and judgemental…my goodness! DJAX stays.
Doesn’t work like that Eagles, you know it people complain about the dumb crap Songs post then come in and post things about the star receiver but thats not hypocritical it’s just their opinion. Funny dudes on here. Foles is great DJax sucks You can’t talk about Foles like that. We need to get Boney James out of town. LOL stupid stupid stupid.
I rip songs too because he traded his Eagles fan card last year and tries to come back like he never did so….It ain’t (yes I said ain’t ) all good. I agree with everything else you said Big. I really would like to get a look into some of these cats personal lives. They really got some mess with them…just not happy unless there is someone or something to complain about. Without DJax opening up things for Copper, there is no way he has a year like he did this year. His production would have been as it had been the past 3 years….guaranteed!
Unfortunately it is the Eagles off-season already, so as Philly fans will do, we will pick apart players because there is no game to talk about.
Just as so many will point at the incredible stats that Foles had this past year, it is hypocritical not to also look at the very strong stats that DJax posted. He had a very good year, but just like with any player, he will have stronger games than others. People are claiming that he doesn’t show up in certain big games..etc. I say that you can look at every other successful reciever in the league and you can find a few games throughout the year where they “disappear”. It happened to Megatron this year…..look at Jimmy Graham in the playoffs….it is not fair to throw all of this hate at DJax. He is a smaller guy, no doubt, but he has a lot of special talents that Kelly will work to exploit. Also, realize that in some games the guy may “disappear” as some are like to say…well if a team has to gameplan and make adjustments to take him out of the game, don’t you think that it opens things up with the other recievers who are not getting the “special” treatment?
Give it a break on DJax, and the talk about anything outside of football is really getting old. Do I wish that DJax was 6″ taller, sure, but otherwise I want to see him with another year in Kelly’s system and with Kelly figuring out ways to get him the ball in open space. And as BL said above, if Foles is missing him when he is open, then it will show on the coaches tape and they will know who missed who or who was taking the play off. I trust this staff will address any areas that need improvement, but if we are going to spend the offseason bitching about DJax….well…..it will be a long offseason.
GO BIRDS!!
Exactly…Good posts green!
You just don’t give up a dude that had the kind of season that he had no matter what issues he has. And especially if you have no one to replace him. Then you would be looking at filling your 1st 2 WR spots. Makes zero sense. Restructure his deal to give him more guaranteed money and he will be fine.
Megatron is one of the biggest big game, dropped passes, critical fumbler in the NFL. How many big games has Megatron showed up in.
I think what a lot of people are factoring in is Carolina Seattle and SF are built on Defense..The QBs are getting a lot of credit, but we can all see the Defenses are King. Next Year Is Cam and Kaps 4th Year…they can get new contracts..they are gonna want a lot of money…guess where that money is gonna come from. You cant pay everyone so your defenses are gonna start coming back to the pack. Wilson and Foles are still playing for peanuts…but in two years it will be pay me time there too. Thing is when the defenses come back to earth your gonna need a QB to up the scoring…for the money these guys are gonna ask for I dont think they will be able to do it. In my opinion this puts the Eagles in a better position than this article states. Gary says get Cam his stud receivers with what money? Cam will want to get paid thats a given, then the following year Kuechly will want his money too. Between those two Carolina is gonna be feeling the pinch…I like the Eagles chances..I think they will manage the cap wisely.
And then they have Star the year after Luke. That’s just the price of having a top notch team.
just my point is you can’t keep em all, and if you do the supporting players arent that good. So the next few years are their window.
To me the Eagles can contend for super bowl in the next two years. On offense, they need to upgrade the right side guard position, and they need a big fast receiver.
On defense they have serious needs – then NEED a big, tall, long armed, pass rushing OLB. They need a safety, they need a large body DT, they need a corner.
For Whatever it’s Worth
Panthers are $9 million under the Cap 2nd to only the Eagles in avaialable Cap $$ in the NFC Conference ..
Panthers have 20 Players who are becoming Free-Agents this Off-Season
including 8 Starters
Offense – LT J Gross, LG T Wharton, WR B LaFell , Returnman/WR T Ginn
Defense – DE Greg Hardy, NT R Edwards, CB C Munnerlyn, Safety Mike Mitchell, Safety Q Mikell
They have 3 RB’s in D’Angelo Williams, Jonathon Stewart and Mike Tolbert with big Contracts and need to Cut/Release one of them (Probably Stewart)
They have a lot of work ahead of them this Off-Season and will probably focus on Offense this Draft rebuilding their OL, WR and looking on how they can keep Newton upright and afford his Big Contract which will be coming soon..
year 4 right? thats when they can get the big contract?
The Panthers are 9 million under the cap?
You think they’ll be able to find a QB with that? If they had one to go with that D, they’d be a tough out.
Maybe they can trade for Andy Dalton.
Dalton for Newton would be pretty fair actually. Both guys could use a change of scenery I think.
Actually, I often wonder why franchises don’t make those kinds of trades. Franchise that knows they have a guy with talent, but it just isn;t working out as well as it should for whatever reason. (coaching, expectations, bad relationship with media, or just a tired fanbase)
When one team (and its franchise) just KNOWS it isn’t going to win with a certain QB, and trades with another franchise in exactly the same position – I mean nothing to lose, and at least there might be a glimmer of hope with the new guy.
Romo for Rivers 2 years ago for example.
Vick for Cutler
QBs currently in the “this guy just teases us by being good enough to keep us competitive but deep down we know we’re never going to win anything with him” category
Romo
Rivers
Palmer
Cutler
Ryan?
Vick
Guys who are currently sliding into that category
Newton
Dalton
Stafford
RGIII
I think a Newton for Dalton trade would be fantastic!
Yeah Vinny by your logic a guy like Russell Wilson avg 130 yards a game with a QBR rating in the 30s is much more of a winner and player than the Kellys and Marinos of the world because there is a real possibility that Wilson will be a SB winning QB. If Romo played for Seattle guess what hes winning a SB. You dont think Cam cant do the same thing Wilson does out there? Its the team aroumd you unless your Brady and Belichek.
Vinny everybody cant win a SB its mathematically almost impossible. lol. It doesn’t mean they suck. Theres 32 teams. One QB may not have a good defense, one guy may not have good recievers, etc etc etc. One team may have injuries. A lot has to go right. How many different QBs do you think have won SBs? Maybe 35 out of thousands of QBs? A small percentage.It is what it is. You stick 75% of them QBs on your list in Seattle and guess what there odds go up dramatically this year. guaranteed.
You are missing the point a bit. The guys I mentioned for the first category (Romo, Cutler, Palmer, Vick etc)…its not that they’re just unlucky…its that when the big games come, they often play badly. You can count on them for mistakes.
You saw (I figure) what I posted before the Chicago/Eagles game. Big important game for Cutler on the road? It was obvious he was going to suck. He always does. I have a good friend who likes the bears and his facebook post the moment the Cutler signing was announced was, “NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!!”
He knows Cutler isn;t good enough. He isn;t winning on Seattle or anywhere because he’ll f-up. The fans know it, and deep down his teammates know it.
And so when that killer INT comes, and everyone knows it will, the TEAM deflates along with the guy. To add to that, often the guys I mentioned display terrible body language or bring out the snarly/depressed faces. These have a great psychological impact on a team.
We all know that’s the case for the first group of guys I mentioned….I just think GMs of teams with those guys should actually experiment with swapping these players….it can’t hurt.
I think the next group of guys has also shown a big of ‘choke’ in big games….especially turning the ball over.
Wilson…he hasn’t shown that yet at all. He has struggled a bit lately, but he’s very young. He’s not handing the ball to the other team like Dalton or Newton. He doesn’t have the terrible body language like Cutler or Rivers or Newton or RGIII when things start going wrong. Those guys bring their whole teams down.
The great Question is where to put Manning in the discussion….I’m leaning towards the first group!!! (everyone knows the killer pick is coming!)
Draft and FA will likely be all offense for them. They will (finally) get Newton some shiny new toys – the D is stacked, even if they lose Hardy.
And I’m not sure they can let Stewart go without taking a big cap hit.
Now if we could get some shiny new offensive toys – a big wideout would be nice, even if Maclin comes back.