One final Eagles 1st-round NFL mock: Will Philadelphia trade up?

The Philadelphia Eagles do indeed trade up, and they land the draft’s best safety.

After picking sixth in Round 1, Carolina will not be on the clock until pick 137 on Day 3. They are a popular trade candidate as a result and the Eagles have enticing assets for them. Inside The Iggles has discussed them as a possible trade candidate before, but if our initial theory isn’t accurate, hopefully, a package that deals pick 15, pick 101, and Andre Dillard might be able to get the job done.

This is a high draft pick that could warrant more in return but the lack of value in the QB class could make this a realistic deal, allowing the Panthers to move back, acquire more picks, and still get the guy they want.

Kyle Hamilton is a game-changer on defense. What he brings to the table makes everybody else’s job easier. Defensive coordinators dream about adding a player like him who can make the game-winning play.

In crucial situations, Hamilton is going to be right at the heart of the play or wherever the defensive coordinator needs him to be. If Jonathan Gannon needs him to play in a two-deep shell or as the post player in a single-high coverage, he can do that. If he wants to bring Hamilton down to the box to help with the run and play in the middle hole or hook curl, he can do that.

He can blitz too. The anticipation, instincts, and IQ Hamilton plays with are second to none, especially when playing the run. We’re not worried in the slightest about him translating at the next level. He should contribute from Day 1.

We’ll admit that this may be a little bit of wishful thinking. Hamilton could be gone by the sixth pick, and he certainly isn’t the only trade-up candidate here. Don’t be surprised if Philly makes a move for Sauce Gardner, Kayvon Thibodeaux, Jordan Davis, or one of the top wideouts. They could also wait a few picks before trading up to get their guy – Carolina isn’t the only trade candidate here.