Philadelphia Eagles may find offensive talent closer to home
Offensive tackle Dion Dawkins’s shares the name of an Eagles legend and could be an ideal 2nd-3rd round selection.
The name “Dawkins” always puts a smile on the face of Philadelphia Eagles fans. We’re not speaking of Brian Dawkins though. We’re talking about Dion Dawkins, an outside offensive lineman from Temple University.
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What we know:
Dawkins is a 6’5 tackle that wouldn’t have to move too far if drafted by the Eagles. He’s been timed at 5.1 seconds in the 40 and is currently projected as a 2nd-3rd round draft pick. The 2016 season has shown us that the Eagles need to invest in their offensive line. With the signing of Brandon Brooks, Philadelphia added a viable starter for the near future. Right tackle Lane Johnson was already one of the line’s strengths. He was playing the best football of his career before his 10-game suspension. Left tackle Jason Peters and center Jason Kelce are aging however, so the Eagles need to invest in their offensive line. That will have to be a focus in the upcoming draft.
Peters’ career is nearing its’ close, and the Eagles find themselves in a precarious position. Johnson may be the logical choice to replace the perennial Pro Bowler. That could mean Halapoulivaati Vaitai would be expected to fill the hole Johnson leaves on the other side. Vaitai was disappointing in his bebut against the Washington Redskins. Ryan Kerrigan beat the rookie constantly, totaling 2.5 sacks and helping the Redskins to a 27-20 victory. The Eagles have struggled in shuffling their offensive line in an attempt to create consistent success. This furthers the importance of investing in the offensive line through the draft. Injuries that have hindered Philadelphia’s ability to protect quarterback Carson Wentz and sustain a consistent rushing attack.
More about Dawkins
Dawkins originally committed to the University of Cincinnati as a defensive lineman, but former head coach Matt Rhule opted to move the unknown prospect from Rahway, New Jersey to a different position. Dawkins was one of four offensive linemen to start at left tackle in 2013 as a true freshmen. Of those tackles included current Miami Dolphins’ tackle Laremy Tunsil.
In 2016, Dawkins was an anchor at left tackle for the 70th best passing offense in the country. The Owls averaged 225.2 passing yards per game and threw 20 passing touchdowns. Better yet, the Owls averaged 191.2 rushing yards per game in 2016, scoring 31 touchdowns on 4.6 yards per carry.
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The bigger picture
The Eagles will miss the 2016 playoffs, but will attempt to play postseason spoiler for their remaining opponents. Dawkins won’t be a big name or early selection, but he could be a mid-round pick that could fill a dire need. Dawkins has the size, athleticism, and desire to succeed. He rescinded his commitment from Cincinnati to attend Temple, and his love for Philly fans has grown as a result. Typically, picking with a homer’s mindset doesn’t necessarily result in anything to be excited about, but selecting Dawkins would not only addresses a need. It could create the opportunity to add to what the name “Dawkins” means to Philly fans.