Philadelphia Eagles First Round Draft Prospects

Jan 3, 2014; Arlington, TX, USA; Missouri Tigers defensive lineman Kony Ealy (47) during the game against the Oklahoma State Cowboys in the 2014 Cotton Bowl at AT&T Stadium. Missouri won 41-31. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports

DE Kony Ealy (Missouri)

It is no secret that the Eagles are going to have to address their below average pass-rush somewhere within the first few rounds of this draft, so why not go ahead and draft Missouri standout defensive end Kony Ealy? He is athletic, possesses an NFL frame at the position (6’4” 275 lbs), and has all of the ability in the world to fit right into Philly’s 3-4 system and make an immediate impact.

Originally Ealy was a lock to be a top 15 pick by many NFL draft experts, but after his unimpressive performance at the combine- his rising stock seemed to have stalled. This is perfect for the Eagles who pick 22nd overall, since there is now a good chance that Ealy will fall and Philadelphia will be in the perfect position to steal him late in the first round!

This would be a great pick, not only because of the fact that it addresses one of the Eagles most obvious needs, but also any day you can steal a guy with the physical ability and upside of Kony Ealy is a win in my book.

Ealy faced many double teams last season, which opened up production for co-SEC defensive player of the year Michael Sam. Still, Kony Ealy recorded 9 sacks in 2013.