It might be early for a mock draft with the Eagles recent success and playoff hopes. However, with the recent performances of Howie Roseman in the draft, it’s worth getting an early look at potential candidates who may catch his eye. While there’s still a lot of football to be played and a massive game against the Washington Commanders this week, there are still potential needs for the Eagles to address.
Eagles Select Jack Sawyer in Latest Mock Draft
With the 26th pick in the latest mock draft, the Eagles selected Jack Sawyer, the talented 6’5” 260-pound edge rusher from Ohio State. Mika Kashuba writes, “Sawyer was the fourth-ranked player in his recruiting class and the next in a long line of great Ohio State pass rushers.”
So far this year, Sawyer has three sacks and tackles for loss, as well as one forced fumble. However, he’s a disruptive player with an NFL build and is strong at the point of the attack. He profiles a surefire starting NFL edge rusher and could be a perfect replacement for Josh Sweat, who is in the final year of his contract.
Along with Sweat, this is likely Brandon Graham’s last year as well. While the Eagles have young players on the edge, only Nolan Smith has proved himself to this point. Sawyer could come in right away and compete for a starting job for the Eagles. At the very least, he would be an excellent third rusher if Bryce Huff or Jalyx Hunt breaks out.
Recent Draft Performances and Potential Needs
2024 first-rounder Quinyon Mitchell and second-rounder Cooper DeJean have been paramount to the Eagles early season turnaround. Along with 2023 first-rounder Jalen Carter, the Eagles have a chance in the next couple of draft cycles to create an outstanding young defense for the coming years. Another edge rusher would fit into this plan, playing with Nolan Smith and Jalen Carter.
Including Sweat and Graham, Milton Williams, Mekhi Becton, and Zack Baun are all on expiring contracts. All three might have earned themselves bigger contracts and could end up elsewhere. With that in mind, a linebacker could be a big need, as well as another offensive guard, if the Eagles do not trust Tyler Steen.
Last Word on Eagles Mock Draft
The Eagles will always prioritize value, and the value they prioritize most often aligns with the offensive and defensive fronts. Sawyer would fit right in with the Eagles as a disruptive player who is stout against the run. This mock draft and future ones in the coming months are probably having the Eagles taking another pass rusher, either in the interior or edge.
However, you can never rule out the Eagles taking another offensive lineman, either. The Eagles have not been in love with Steen to this point, and Lane Johnson is only getting older. Adding a stud at right guard or a right tackle of the future will also be in play. Yet, there’s still a lot of football to be played and many decisions to be made before draft day. Just make sure to keep an eye out for Jack Sawyer until then.
Main Image: Joseph Maiorana – USA Today Sports
