Eagles Draft Rumors: Philly Eyeing Trade Up to Take Jalen Carter?
With the first round of the 2023 NFL Draft on Thursday, the Philadelphia Eagles and general manager Howie Roseman have a big week ahead of them. The Eagles have two picks in the first round, their own at No. 30 and another from the New Orleans Saints at No. 10. That’s where they stand for now, at least.
According to Charlie Campbell of Walterfootball.com, league sources have suggested that Philadelphia could be looking to move up from No. 10 to somewhere between No. 6 and No. 8. Additionally, the Eagles have a target in mind for such a trade: Georgia defensive lineman Jalen Carter.
“Last year, the Philadelphia Eagles moved up in the first round to select Georgia defensive tackle Jordan Davis, and if the Eagles could have their way, they would do that again to reunite Davis with his former teammate Jalen Carter,” Campbell said. “NFL team sources have told WalterFootball.com that Philadelphia has made calls to see what it would take for teams to move down to the 10th-overall pick. Given the cost of trading in the top 10, the Eagles are not looking to move into the top five.”
Prior to the NFL Combine, Carter was the popular pick to go No. 1 overall in the draft. However, he has had a brutal pre-draft process, between a poor showing at his Pro Day and being arrested for his involvement in a fatal crash that killed a Georgia teammate and staffer. With his off-field issues, Carter is likely no longer in the running for the top overall pick.
That said, his talent is undeniable and most agree he will still go in the top 10. The Eagles’ defensive line was a major strength last season, but they lost a major piece of it when Javon Hargrave left in free agency. If they want to reload their defensive front, then Carter would be an appealing option, at least on the field.
That is, if they can even get him. The Seattle Seahawks pick at No. 5 and are a popular destination for Carter in mock drafts. If they do take Carter then, the Eagles’ rumored plans go out the window.
Furthermore, the Eagles will have to jump above the Chicago Bears, another popular destination for Carter, at No. 9. This leaves the Detroit Lions, Las Vegas Raiders and Atlanta Falcons at No. 6, 7 and 8, respectively as possible trade partners.
It is worth noting, though, that the Eagles only have six total picks in the entire draft. This could limit what they could offer one of those teams to move up.
Only time will tell if the Eagles actually do move up, but it will definitely be something to watch on Thursday.
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