Philadelphia Eagles: Comparing Denzel Mims, Justin Jefferson for draft

Best fit

The production from the wideout position was so abysmal for the Eagles last season, there isn’t a receiver that doesn’t make sense in the draft. Philadelphia could use a speed demon, a crafty possession player, an “above the rim” athlete.

Basically, if you can think of a receiver archetype, the Eagles could use it.

Both Mims and Jefferson make plenty of sense for the Birds at No. 21 in the first round.

Jefferson is an ultra competitive scrapper with strong hands who can make catches in tight windows.

Meanwhile, Mims is a combine darling with proven production. He looks every bit of a legitimate NFL wide receiver. Either player would be a welcomed addition, because its unlikely the receivers could be any worse than last year, right?

If both players are on the board when the Eagles are on the clock in the first round, I would rather see Mims in green. The Eagles’ offense lacked explosion in 2019 after DeSean Jackson basically played one game and was Philadelphia’s best downfield threat.

Constantly asking Wentz to manufacture drives by nickel-and-diming his way up field isn’t going to get this team very far.

Mims has the potential to break open plays and take the top off of defenses. Jefferson seems to have the higher floor, as he is a more refined route runner and has better hands.

Even if Jefferson is a reliable pass catcher with a solid career, Mims has the physical profile, catch radius, and speed to become a true No.1 option in the NFL.

Mims’ ceiling makes him a more attractive option for the Eagles, and he can pull down errant throws while making plays after the catch, which are two things the Eagles desperately need.

So while Philadelphia could certainly benefit from both options, Mims appears to be the better option heading into April.