Dave’s 2015 NFL Mock Draft 1.0: Philadelphia Eagles Go Defense Early
By Dave Searles
Sep 6, 2014; Starkville, MS, USA; UAB Blazers quarterback Cody Clements (5) advances the ball and is tackled by Mississippi State Bulldogs linebacker Benardrick McKinney (50) during the game at Davis Wade Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Spruce Derden-USA TODAY Sports
20. Philadelphia Eagles
Benardrick McKinney
Inside Linebacker, Mississippi State
Marcus Mariota was taken already, sorry.
The choices here were #OregonBias DT Arik Armstead, UCLA ILB Eric Kendricks (Mychal’s brother), McKinney, or trading the pick, in no particular order. I think the board fell extremely poorly for the Eagles here considering the amount of needs in the secondary that the Eagles have (among others), but if you’re looking at value than the pick practically makes itself. Plus, there are six more rounds and plenty of talent to be had.
DeMeco Ryans may not be the same player he was before his injury, and even potentially re-signing Casey Matthews doesn’t take away that the Eagles need to find a long-term starter next to Mychal Kendricks. Benardrick (6’5, 245) brings the size that Chip Kelly loves with his players, and this pick allows Marcus Smith II to stay at OLB until he’s ready to get on the field.
Next: Finishing the First Round