The Philadelphia Eagles are a team that will be interesting to watch in the upcoming 2021 NFL Draft. With so many needs to focus on, they will have to ace this draft in order to take the steps necessary to get back into the playoff picture.
After finishing the 2020 NFL season with a 4-11-1 record, the Eagles made some major changes. They traded longtime quarterback Carson Wentz to the Indianapolis Colts and moved on from head coach Doug Pederson. A new chapter is beginning for the Eagles.
With every new chapter comes a lot of new talent. Philadelphia currently owns the No. 6 overall pick in the NFL Draft. That pick could bring in a future star.
All of that being said, let’s dive in and take a look at three intriguing options the Eagles have with the No. 6 overall pick this year.
3. Patrick Surtain II, Cornerback, Alabama
One of the main needs that the Eagles have this offseason will be improving their defensive secondary. Patrick Surtain II would be the ideal pick for the franchise if they opt to focus on beefing up their defense.
Surtain is coming off of a solid season with the Crimson Tide in 2020. He racked up 32 total tackles to go along with an interception, a defensive touchdown, and 10 defended passes. There is no question that he has star potential.
The Eagles may choose to focus on the offensive side of the ball to help out second-year quarterback Jalen Hurts. But, if they want to go defense first, Surtain would be a perfect pick.
2. Kyle Pitts, Tight End, Florida
Let’s keep it in the SEC for the next potential option that the Eagles should consider. Kyle Pitts is the best tight end in this NFL Draft class and is one of the best players overall regardless of position.
Granted, the Eagles still have Dallas Goedert penciled in as their starting tight end in 2021. Zach Ertz is expected to be traded before the NFL Draft. Even with Goedert as the top tight end, the Eagles should consider bringing in Pitts.
Pitts racked up 43 receptions for 770 yards and 12 touchdowns in 2020. He is more than just a tight end and will be a matchup nightmare for opposing defenses. This is the kind of move that would help Hurts out in a big way.
1. DeVonta Smith, Wide Receiver, Alabama
Finally, we have our second Alabama prospect on this list for the Eagles. A wide receiver would be no surprise at all for Philadelphia to select at No. 6 overall. Moving on from Alshon Jeffery and DeSean Jackson has created a need at the wideout position.
Smith is the kind of talent that could change everything for the Eagles’ offense. He won the Heisman Trophy in 2020, catching 117 passes for 1,856 yards and 23 touchdowns.
Hurts needs a true No. 1 wide receiver and Smith would be that guy. He would be the perfect pick for the Eagles at No. 6.
