Philadelphia Eagles: Why Draft Jordan Hicks?

Lost among all of the questions and scrutiny that surrounded the Philadelphia Eagles‘ secondary and quarterback positions this offseason, was the fact that the inside linebacker position carried serious concerns of its own. The tandem of DeMeco Ryans and running mate Mychal Kendricks only managed to stay fully healthy for one complete game in 2014, while top reserve Najee Goode spent the duration of the season on injured reserve.

Meanwhile, spot starter and special teams contributor Casey Matthews was allowed to walk in free agency, further complicating the depth of the unit. The Eagles were in an undeniably precarious position, and the powers to be responded decisively with a blockbuster deal for former PFWA Defensive Rookie of the Year, Kiko Alonso. While Alonso was generally very well received by the fans and media, there was one offseason acquisition that was greeted with much less acceptance and adulation: Drafting Texas linebacker Jordan Hicks in the third round of the 2015 NFL Draft. Although Hicks comes with less prestige than his counterpart, he’s set to make his mark on a now formidable unit.

For many, Hicks was a reach; a misuse of a valuable third-round pick that would have been more well spent on a offensive lineman. Offensive line is undoubtedly a problem area for the Eagles, but given the aforementioned lingering injury concerns and lack of dependable backup options, it’s understandable that the brass saw the need to invest at inside linebacker. Especially on a player that head coach Chip Kelly saw as the unequivocal best player available. Regardless of the philosophical dynamics behind the pick, Hicks offers obvious value to Philadelphia in a variety of ways.

Aesthetically, Hicks fits the physical profile of a typical NFL inside linebacker. Hicks has the size and length that Kelly and his “right hand man,” Ed Marynowitz covet. In addition to this, Hicks’ athletic measurables are off the charts, here they are via Mockdraftable:

Where Hicks really separates himself from the field is in way of his intangibles and leadership qualities. Though these traits are often difficult to qualify, they become vividly apparent when he speaks. Hicks is among the most articulate and eloquent speakers that I have observed during the draft process. The demeanor and presence that he brings to the room is reminiscent of a prominent and charismatic businessman. It’s easy to imagine Hicks commanding a huddle the way he commands the room during a media session.

The significance of acquiring and cultivating these types of personalities as it pertains to the development of the culture that Chip Kelly aspires to create can not be understated. Jordan Hicks, Nelson Agholor and Jordan Matthews represent the archetypes for Chip Kelly’s ideal culture fit: Intelligent, committed, like-minded individuals who share an unrivaled passion for the game of football.

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On a positive note, Hicks possesses impressive movement skills; his ability to move laterally and operate in space is enviable, and makes him a solid fit at WILL ILB. He is able to move sideline to sideline, and looks comfortable and confident in zone coverage. Hicks plays balanced and with good pad level for the most part, and does a great job of keeping his head up while engaging blockers, allowing him to locate ball carriers and slide into running lanes. In addition to this, Hicks is a highly intelligent player, capable of acting as a coach on the field, and giving him the makings of the potential heir to Demeco’s role. Hicks also adds a presence as a special teams threat who will slide seamlessly into the slot left vacant by the departure of Casey Matthews.

Unfortunately, Hicks possesses a few flaws in his game, some of which could be considered glaring and potentially hazardous to his chances of contributing meaningfully on defense early on.

While Hicks moves very well he lacks functional NFL strength to say the least. Hicks can navigate the trash well, however, when he’s engaged by an offensive lineman he’s typically blown off the ball with ease. Most college linebackers have issues with consistently stacking and shedding, as the nuances of proper technique and hand usage aren’t easily developed, however, Hicks issues are far deeper than the typical prospect’s; I really worry about his play strength as it is (getting him heavily involved in the strength program will be key). Although Hicks has good tackling technique and takes good angles, he often finds himself sliding off ball carriers and giving up extra yards. His instincts are also suspect as he sometimes ends up in the wrong gap, or bites on fakes.

Though I doubt Hicks sees meaningful snaps on defense in year one, I do believe that he will have a role. Look for him to be a plus contributor on special teams and serve as one of the primary backups to the starters (whoever they may be). If Ryans starts, it wouldn’t be surprising to see Hicks to contribute in a sub package role as a coverage specialist. Overall, while I’m not a huge proponent of Hicks’, I do like his long term potential if he can improve his play strength and work on his technique. At the very least, I would expect Hicks to become a valuable special teams asset, spot starter, and locker room leader.

Next: Better Option At Safety, Walter Thurmond Or Jaylen Watkins?

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