28. Philadelphia Eagles

-William Beatty (LT/Connecticut)

William Beatty (NFL.com)

The Eagles have to be uncomfortable putting Winston Justice back at LT after embarrassing himself against Osi Umenyiora two seasons ago when he allowed 6 sacks in a single game. Jon Runyan was not resigned, and the long-time stalwart, Tra Thomas was sent to Jacksonville. The team did add RT Stacy Andrews from the Bengals, but LT is still a big concern. Andy Reid is probably sitting in the Eagles war room saying “Donovan McNabb must be protected at all costs. If he is injured, our playoff hopes go down the toilet.”

If Michael Oher is snatched early, the Eagles will be faced with choosing William Beatty if they want to upgrade the LT spot during the draft.  He is considered either the 5th or 6th best tackle available, but is extremely athletic with a frame to bulk up to the size Reid prefers. I admit that Beatty is not a perfect fit because he is actually a more accomplished pass blocker than run mauler. But his long arms and 6’6 frame make him surprisingly similar to Tra Thomas.

-The Eagles have 12 picks to work with, making the option of packaging some picks to move around becomes very likely. Michael Oher should be on the team’s watch list, and so should Knowshon Moreno.

This pick has everything to do with the direction Philly takes with their first selection. I believe they will address either TE, OT, or maybe HB in the first round.

Next on the clock: New York Giants

See entire hybrid mock draft here

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