Skip to main content

Eagles NFL Mock Draft: Philly Picks Pair of Smiths to Bolster Defense

In a recent mock draft, the Philadelphia Eagles waste no time selecting a pair of Smiths that could instantly make an impact as rookies next season.

The Philadelphia Eagles have two clear objectives for the coming NFL season.

First, the Eagles have their sights set on getting back to the Super Bowl.

Next? Win it all, of course. 

To reach the pinnacle of the pro football world, they'll be targeting defense in the first round of the NFL Draft by selecting Georgia Bulldogs edge Nolan Smith with the No. 10 overall pick, at least according to a recent mock draft from NFL.com.

"The freak athlete could serve as an apprentice to Brandon Graham for a season," NFL.com wrote while mocking Smith to Philadelphia. "Before cracking the lineup as a full-time starter and disruptive playmaker on the edges."

But with two picks on Day 1, the Eagles don't stop at Smith, choosing to add Michigan Wolverines defensive lineman Mazi Smith as well. 

"The Eagles' defensive-line rotation is loaded with players possessing A-plus athletic traits and imposing physical dimensions," says NFL.com. "At 6-3, 323 pounds, Smith is a freak athlete with heavy hands and impressive body control."

Currently, Philadelphia is going to be missing just over 3,000 defensive snaps from players departing the front seven this offseason or yet to return.

While these two Smiths can't do it on their own, this first-round mock draft would certainly heal a dent by putting talented young players in place of lost veterans this offseason.

And with two more picks in the top 100 of the NFL Draft, the Eagles will get two more cracks at adding impact rookies who could help keep the team at the top of the NFC.


Find David on Twitter @DHarrison82

Want the latest in breaking news and insider information on the Philadelphia Eagles? Click Here.

Want even more Philadelphia Eagles news? Check out the SI.com team page here