Grading the pick: Eagles trade up with Cowboys to draft A.J. Brown’s potential replacement
The Philadelphia Eagles just drafted a new wide receiver. Could that confirm A.J. Brown is headed to New England later this offseason? Here is the latest.
The Philadelphia Eagles and general manager Howie Roseman are back to making moves. They got aggressive in the first round tonight to land an offensive playmaker that will immediately improve the explosiveness of their unit.
Eagles draft WR Makai Lemon with 20th overall pick
After trading up from 23 to 20, the Eagles have selected USC wide receiver Makai Lemon.
“From a physical tools perspective, there is nothing dynamic about Lemon. He is, however, an outstanding wide receiver prospect who understands how to win in multiple ways. Lemon is a detailed route runner who clearly understands how to set up defenders and attack blind spots.
There is a strong argument that he is the best overall route runner in the class. Lemon has also shown the ability to win both after the catch and in the air, which is impressive for his size. Underrate Lemon if you’d like, but there’s a good chance he eventually becomes one of the top slot receivers in the NFL. The film is arguably the cleanest of any wide receiver in the class.” — Ryan Roberts
The Eagles are clearly planning for life after A.J. Brown. Adam Schefter recently reported that a trade involving Brown and the New England Patriots seems to be trending towards happening as a post-June 1 move.
This move makes plenty of sense when you consider that the Eagles are in a winning window and want to provide QB Jalen Hurts with as many offensive weapons as possible. Now, the focus shifts to offensive line and defensive talent going forward with their picks.
Grade: B