For the Philadelphia Eagles - and every franchise in the NFL - depth in the trenches is paramount.
Amid the recent free agency departures of backups Brett Toth and Matt Pryor, there are bodies needed in the offensive line room in Philly. Fred Johnson is returning with his crucial swing tackle capabilities, but beyond the projected starting five up front and Johnson back in the fold, the unit's overall depth has taken a hit.
Kansas tackle Enrique Cruz is an intriguing, fast-ascending prospect who has seen his skill set and overall potential unfold over a longer trajectory than most linemen. After an up-and-down tenure suiting up for the Syracuse Orange, Cruz landed on the KU campus, where his ability to hold down the fort at left tackle for the Jayhawks once again put him firmly on the radars of NFL scouts.
Eagles might have good depth piece in Enrique Cruz
Similar to Penn State lineman Drew Shelton, who could also be a draft darling this April for Roseman, Cruz has a highly-sought after quality: Versatility. While he most recently excelled at left tackle, he also has right-tackle experience from his time at Syracuse.
As a possible day three draft option for Eagles general manager Howie Roseman to ponder, the size and agility combination of Cruz is worth noting. Standing at 6-foot-6 and 320 pounds, the Chicago native wowed scouts at the Combine with a 4.94 40-yard dash time. Throughout his college career, Cruz has shown the ability to get to the second level and is equally adept at maneuvering to the perimeter to pave the way in the screen game.
Much like the "human skyscraper" Markel Bell, he has a clear upside that makes him a viable day three option. There's no doubt that continued development will be essential for Cruz to succeed at the next level, and while he's not considered an immediate starter-level talent as the April draft draws closer, he could make an impact down the line.
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Depth is always in high demand within the trenches, and Cruz is the latest prospect in a promising group of linemen that could provide just that by way of the draft for the Eagles.