Who Will Be The Philadelphia Eagles First Round Pick? ITI’s Staff Predictions!

Nov 22, 2014; Orlando, FL, USA; UCF Knights wide receiver Breshad Perriman (11) catches an 18-yard touchdown pass against the Southern Methodist Mustangs in the first half at Bright House Networks Stadium. Mandatory Credit: David Manning-USA TODAY Sports

Pat Roach’s Prediction:

Breshad Perriman, Wide Receiver, Central Florida

The Philadelphia Eagles are in an admittedly awkward draft position this time around. There are roughly 10-12 very good prospects in the 2015 class, and when factoring in general need/scheme specifics, it’s hard to imagine any of the Eagles’ high-end targets being available when they’re on the clock tonight. While the prospect of trading down is enticing given the situation, it’s easier said than done. It’s possible that standing pat and using the “best player available” strategy will prove to be the ultimate course of action. UCF WR Breshad Perriman presents an intriguing option for Philadelphia at #20.

An elite size-speed prospect, Perriman is incredibly explosive and excels at making plays on the ball downfield. He possesses the build and functional strength to be an effective blocker at the next level, and would prove nightmarish operating in the space that the Chip Kelly offense creates. Perriman had some drop issues at UCF, but it stands to reason that this particular deficiency isn’t all that damning in the eyes of Chip Kelly. Jordan Matthews was considered to have questionable hands, however, that didn’t deter Kelly from attempting to pull the trigger on him at 26, one year ago.

Perriman checks all the boxes for the Eagles (height-size-speed, scheme specifics, and culture), and is a player that the team has shown interest in during the pre-draft process. While Perriman is only one of the many prospects in play for the Eagles at 20, he quite possibly has the highest ceiling. This alone is reason enough for Chip to gamble on a player who may be the organization’s best chance at uncovering an elite talent.

Next: Giorgos Kassakos' Prediction