Philadelphia Eagles NFL Draft: Eric Kendricks

Aug 31, 2013; Pasadena, CA, USA; Nevada Wolf Pack quarterback Cody Fajardo (17) attempts to elude UCLA Bruins linebacker Eric Kendricks (6) at the Rose Bowl. UCLA defeated Nevada 58-20. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

Conclusion

After watching the tape, it’s easy to see why people think Eric Kendricks is one of the top inside linebackers in the 2015 draft class. Although he’s undersized, Kendricks it the total package and checks all the boxes you’d normally have on your linebacker checklist. Right now, it seems like the general consensus is that Kendricks will be a late first round or second round pick.

Considering he’s also participating in the Senior Bowl and I’d assume the combine as well, Kendricks’ stock should change quite a bit leading up to the draft. Now it could go either way but based on what I’ve seen on tape, read about him, etc. I think he’ll end up being a lock for the first round and a steal if he’s taken outside of there.

In terms of his fit on the Eagles, Kendricks would be a perfect addition. Not only would it be special to see him play alongside his older brother as the middle linebacker duo in the core of Billy Davis’ 3-4 defense. But he’d be an upgrade over current Eagles’ linebacker DeMeco Ryans.

Don’t get me wrong, I have a soft spot for Ryans, but he’s set to make quite a large chunk of money next season ($6.9 million to be exact). If the Eagles could draft his potential replacement this year, it’d only benefit them moving forward…and drafting UCLA’s Eric Kendricks would be a wonderful way to do so.