Eagles take potential James Bradberry replacement in latest NFL mock draft
The Philadelphia Eagles have two first-round draft selections in this year's NFL Draft. Luckily, one of their picks belonged to the New Orleans Saints. After the Saints' disappointing season, the Eagles own a top ten selection even after a Super Bowl appearance. In the latest A to Z Sports Draft Room mock draft, the Eagles […]
The Philadelphia Eagles have two first-round draft selections in this year's NFL Draft.
Luckily, one of their picks belonged to the New Orleans Saints. After the Saints' disappointing season, the Eagles own a top ten selection even after a Super Bowl appearance.
In the latest A to Z Sports Draft Room mock draft, the Eagles selected Oregon Cornerback Christian Gonzalez.
Gonzalez is one of the top defensive prospects in this year's class.
He is a polished cornerback prospect with plenty of collegiate experience.
He took his skillset to the next level this season at Oregon, and it was a massive development of the Ducks.
For Philly, they may have to replace James Bradberry. He is a free agent during this off-season. Bradberry is open to returning to the Eagles, but they may not bring him back due to the size of the contract he will receive.
Bradberry had a resurgent season in the Philadelphia secondary and is in position to get a nice pay day.
Aside from his critical penalty in the Super Bowl, he was an important piece for the Eagles. If he doesn't return, they will have a hole at CB behind Darius Slay.
Their depth has been inconsistent at the position over the past couple of seasons. Gonzalez would slide into that role seamlessly with impressive size and speed.
His athleticism is really exciting, and his ceiling for a rookie would be higher than most at cornerback.
Gonzalez has a strong mental side as well and understands zone coverage at the top of this class. His smooth hips allow him to track receivers downfield well and allow him opportunities to play the football in the air.
He's a physical defensive back as well. Gonzalez is willing in the run game, but he does need to improve in press coverage.
Off the line, sometimes receivers can be more physical than the former Oregon Duck. That's a trait that he can improve on quickly at the next level, though.
Gonzalez would make plenty of sense in the first round for the Eagles.
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