The Draft is going to bring out the best (and worst) of Philadelphia Eagles fans
By Matt Giraldi
Will the Philadelphia Eagles go offense or defense in the draft? Could Dalvin Cook be the running back of the future in Philadelphia? The reaction afterwards is going to make for good television regardless. Why? Eagles fans.
Howie Roseman, Doug Pederson and Jeffrey Lurie all know that the stakes are higher than normal in this year’s NFL Draft. In case you didn’t know, the draft is being hosted by the City of Brotherly Love. The NFL has entrusted the city and it’s fans with this huge event. Eagles fans will have the opportunity to be very vocal. Very vocal.
Are any other Eagles fans tired of prognostications and hypotheticals? Frankly, I have a bad feeling about the draft. Having said that, I also have set low expectations in hope of being pleasantly surprised. Low expectations might not be shared by all Eagles fans however. Perpetual hope and the draft go hand in hand. As Donovan McNabb can attest, that can also lead to severe disappointment.
With such a plethora of options available at the 14th pick, the Eagles could even decide to trade back. Imagine the heartbreak and frustration in the crowd. A decision like that could ultimately be what’s best for business. Whether Eagles fans in attendance would agree is cause for speculation.
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Thus far this offseason, the Eagles have addressed several holes in their lineup. The wide receiving corps has been improved significantly. As a result, a common target in mock drafts is the largest target: running back and cornerback. As nice as hearing Cook or Marshon Lattimore would be, imagine hearing Joe Mixon’s name. That just might elicit a bad reaction.
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Of course I’m spiraling down the mainstream media’s rabbit hole here. Eagles fans are historically painted as the villain. Some of it is deserving after all.
Unfortunately the city of Philadelphia and their fans have been branded with a permanent scarlet letter. It’s an ‘A’, but adultery is certainly not the label. Our passion and vocalness isn’t understood by outsiders.
That’s why not all eyes will be on Roger Goodell when the 14th pick is announced. Instead, the cascade of boos that will rain down upon him will be the focus. The fans, hoping for a draft that produces as many starters as last year’s draft, will take the stage. There will be no need for the TV panels to give their reaction. Just listen to the crowd for your instantaneous draft grade. After all, the crowd has the same likelihood that their reaction is as wrong as Mel Kiper’s. Just remember to leave your Duracell batteries at home for this event.