'Strength in numbers' will forever be a mantra that fits the Philadelphia Eagles when it comes to trench talent. And while the chances of general manager Howie Roseman going offensive line right off the bat in round one remain high, there will be solid options to consider once the later rounds arrive for crucial depth up front.
Offensive Guard Kobe Baynes is another Kansas lineman who figures to be on Philadelphia's radar later on in the upcoming NFL draft as a promising developmental depth piece, joining teammate Enrique Cruz Jr as the Jayhawks' duo previously met with Eagles' staff at the American Bowl.
And while Cruz Jr. was holding down blind side duties on Saturdays for KU, Baynes was brandishing plenty of physicality on the interior. NFLDraftBuzz honed in on the skillet of the 6-foot-4, 321-pound Jacksonville, Florida product:
"Exceptional 81.5-inch wingspan gives him natural advantages at the point of attack and allows him to redirect defenders with extended reach in pass protection. Plays with a nasty demeanor in the run game, finishing blocks through the whistle and looking for work on the second level when his initial assignment is handled. Pass blocking grades out at an excellent level, rarely allowing pressure up the middle and anchoring effectively against interior rushers who try to bull rush."
Eagles have a good option at Kansas to help their depth
A two-year starter in Lawrence, Baynes developed into a road grader who relishes winning one-on-one matchups thanks to his unwavering intensity. Along with Cruz Jr., Baynes excelled at the American Bowl, and the Eagles were one of 19 teams that caught up with him there.
With the long-term status of interior stalwart Landon Dickerson touch-and-go, and the contract status of fellow guard Tyler Steen leaving his future in Philly far from cemented, a day three talent like Baynes would not only add depth, but long-term development potential to eventually challenge for starting guard duties.
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Between Baynes and Cruz Jr., don't be shocked if a rock-chalk Jayhawk is tabbed to don the midnight green this coming draft weekend.