The Philadelphia Eagles have been remarkably proactive during the free agency period, making significant moves to enhance their roster by adding both high-quality starters and valuable depth players across the entire team. These strategic acquisitions are set to influence their draft strategies and overall needs for the upcoming season. One position that particularly underperformed last year was linebacker, which significantly hindered the Eagles’ defensive capabilities in 2022. The combination of insufficient talent in this area and injury setbacks left the Eagles vulnerable, especially in terms of defending the middle of the field and stopping the run game. Let’s delve deeper into the various factors that could shape their draft approach regarding linebackers this year.

Understanding the Impact of Vic Fangio’s Defensive Philosophy

Vic Fangio is renowned for his ability to develop elite linebackers, having worked with stars like Patrick Willis, Navarro Bowman, and Roquan Smith. His defensive scheme typically provides linebackers with ample space and flexibility, allowing athletic and physical players to aggressively attack the line of scrimmage while also excelling in coverage. While some analysts may argue that Fangio’s system elevates linebacker performance rather than relying solely on talent, it is more accurate to view this as a mutually beneficial relationship. The effectiveness of his defense tends to improve significantly when it features top-tier linebackers, making it imperative for the Eagles to prioritize this position in their upcoming draft strategy.

Analyzing the Current Linebacker Roster of the Eagles

The Eagles have made some intriguing additions through free agency, with Devin White standing out as a notable signing due to his impressive pedigree and flashes of brilliance in his career thus far. However, his inconsistent performances over the past two seasons leave uncertainty about his ability to be a reliable starter. Additionally, the team has brought in Oren Burks and Zach Baun; Baun has the versatility to play both inside and outside, while Burks has considerable experience as an off-ball linebacker. Although neither of these players is expected to be game-changers, they provide the Eagles with essential depth that was sorely lacking last season.

Another player to consider is Nakobe Dean, who has showcased his potential during the limited snaps he has received over the last two years. Nonetheless, injury concerns still loom over this talented young player. In addition, there’s Ben VanSumeren, who displayed solid performance in his limited rookie appearances but lacks the athleticism typically favored in Fangio’s defensive scheme. The depth and competition within the linebacker unit will be crucial as the team looks to improve its defensive performance.

Howie Roseman’s Approach to Building the Linebacker Corps

Howie Roseman, the Eagles’ general manager, has historically assigned a lower value to the linebacker position. His past drafts reflect this trend, as evidenced by Mychal Kendricks being the only linebacker selected in the second round back in 2012, with no linebackers chosen higher than the third round since then. Many of the top linebackers to have played for the Eagles in recent years have arrived via free agency, such as Nigel Bradham and Kyzir White, or through late-round draft picks and undrafted free agents like TJ Edwards. Roseman’s strategy often revolves around maximizing value for a position he has typically deemed replaceable, leaving the linebacker situation a point of interest heading into the draft.

Evaluating the 2023 Draft Class and Its Implications for the Eagles

The current linebacker draft class lacks a consensus top-tier prospect akin to Roquan Smith; however, it does feature several players projected to be selected within the top 50 picks, who have the potential to contribute significantly early in their careers. The Eagles may take a multi-faceted approach to bolster their linebacker corps, but there is a strong likelihood they will invest a relatively high draft pick (prior to the fourth round) on a linebacker unless a major trade for a veteran occurs. Here are some promising prospects that could fit well within the Eagles’ system.

Payton Wilson, NC State: A Talented Yet Risky Prospect

Payton Wilson is one of the most intriguing players in this year’s draft class. Based on game tape, testing results, and statistical performance, Wilson possesses the attributes of a first-round talent. He exhibits excellent size, remarkable speed, and plays with relentless energy when on the field. His ability to attack the line of scrimmage as both a run defender and blitzer is impressive, along with a solid grasp of coverage responsibilities. However, Wilson will be 24 at the time of the draft and has a troubling injury history, which raises concerns about his durability. These factors may hinder his chances of being a top selection, but if he can stay healthy, Wilson has the potential to be a game-changing three-down linebacker in the NFL.

Jeremiah Trotter Jr., Clemson: Instinctual Yet Undersized

Jeremiah Trotter Jr. is recognized as one of the most instinctive defenders in this draft class, consistently finding himself in the right position at critical moments. However, he does face challenges due to his smaller stature as a linebacker, and his testing numbers haven’t fully matched the speed he demonstrates on the field. For the Eagles, he may be more suited to play as a nickel linebacker rather than someone who can take on all three downs. His high football IQ and awareness could provide valuable contributions in specific defensive packages.

Junior Colson, Michigan: A Linebacker Full of Potential

Junior Colson plays with an infectious energy and physicality when attacking the line of scrimmage, making him a joy to watch. While he may exhibit some stiffness and struggles with spatial awareness in coverage, it’s possible that his challenges stem from a lack of trust in his instincts rather than a deficiency in athleticism. I believe Colson still has untapped potential and could develop into a valuable asset as a Day 2 pick, bringing a dynamic presence to the Eagles’ linebacker unit.

Edgerrin Cooper, Texas A&M: The Sleeper with High Upside

Edgerrin Cooper possesses the potential to emerge as the top linebacker in this draft class. He showcases excellent run defense skills, combining impressive speed with a fearless approach when attacking the line of scrimmage. While his athleticism suggests he could become a solid coverage player, there is still significant room for improvement in that area. For a team like the Eagles, which employs a linebacker-friendly scheme, Cooper could develop into a true impact player, making him a name to watch as the draft approaches.