NFL Draft ‘Could Spell Doom’ For Eagles Starter – Patrick McAvoy, Sports Illustrated
The prospects in the draft and the team’s defensive depth could present challenges for an Eagles starter.
The Philadelphia Eagles have experienced several personnel losses this offseason, and there may be more departures on the horizon.
With the NFL Draft just a week away, the possibility of trades looms large. This has been an unusual year, as all 32 teams currently hold their first-round picks, a scenario that is not the norm. Expect some transactions as the draft approaches, as the dynamics of the draft board will influence team decisions.
Speculation has increased regarding potential player movements. For instance, Eagles Wire’s Glenn Erby compiled a list of five players who could be traded soon, highlighting 25-year-old defensive tackle Jordan Davis.
“DT Jordan Davis,” Erby noted. “Davis recorded 27 tackles (15 solo), one sack, and two passes defended while participating in all 17 regular-season games in 2024. In the playoffs, he added six tackles (four solo), including two sacks and one pass defense across four games.
“Davis has been a starter for every regular-season game for the past two years, but he logged 122 fewer defensive snaps this past year and shared time with second-year defensive lineman Moro Ojomo. If Philadelphia targets players like Walter Nolen or Darius Alexander, it could mean trouble for Davis.”
Davis, who was a first-round selection in the 2022 NFL Draft, has completed three years with the Eagles. Despite starting every regular season game in the last two seasons, his performance has been lackluster, with just one sack and 27 tackles last year. Could his tenure with the team be nearing its end?
That might rest on the outcomes of the draft. The Eagles have already faced significant defensive losses this offseason, and it would be unwise to sever ties with a young player like Davis unless they receive considerable value in return through the draft.
Evan Neal likely nearing the end of his disappointing New York Giants’ career – John Fennelly, USA Today
Similar to the Eagles, a former first-round pick from the Giants may be on the verge of being released.
The New York Giants’ offensive line is expected to stay intact for training camp this July, which is promising news for this unit that has faced struggles in the past.
General manager Joe Schoen has been actively improving the team via free agency and anticipates all starters being fit for the 2025 season.
Andrew Thomas is reportedly recovering well from a foot injury while guard Jon Runyan Jr. is expected to be back in action this spring, barring any setbacks.
The projected starting lineup for the upcoming season includes Thomas at left tackle, Runyan at left guard, John Michael Schmitz at center, Greg Van Roten at right guard, and Jermaine Eluemunor at right tackle.
During Schoen’s press conference leading up to the draft, there was a question about Evan Neal, a former first-round pick whose role on the team seems uncertain.
The Giants have until May 1 to make a decision on Neal’s fifth-year option, with Schoen indicating they will wait to announce it until after the draft. However, it seems the Giants are prepared to move on from Neal unless he significantly improves his performance.
10 2nd-round draft prospects for Commanders fans to watch – Zach Selby, Commanders.com
The Washington Commanders are aiming to enhance their roster after finishing as the NFC runners-up in 2024.
The Commanders have the opportunity to select a top player with the 29th overall pick in the 2025 draft, but adding just one standout player won’t be sufficient for overall team improvement.
As they approach general manager Adam Peters’ second draft, the Commanders will utilize five picks. Peters, who successfully drafted nine players last year, set a high standard, as every player from that draft class made the 53-man roster.
The 2025 draft presents different challenges, but their previous actions in free agency, including trades for players like Deebo Samuel and Laremy Tunsil, give them the flexibility to either select the best available player or fill specific needs. With a solid current roster, Peters recognizes there are still key positions to address, such as edge rusher, cornerback, and offensive lineman.
As part of their draft preparations, Commanders.com will analyze ten players the team could target in each draft round. With no third-round pick available, they will now focus on potential selections for the second round, where they have the 61st overall pick.
Marcus Mbow, G, Purdue: Mbow offers versatility with starting experience at both guard and tackle, making him a valuable depth option even if he does not start immediately. Although he isn’t a powerhouse (weighing 303 pounds at the combine), his athleticism allows him to reach the second level and clear running lanes.
Jaylin Noel, WR, Iowa State: Despite his smaller stature (5-foot-10, 194 pounds), Noel compensates with impressive speed (running a 4.39 40-yard dash during the combine) and versatility, making him capable of playing various roles. Additionally, he has experience as a return specialist, amassing 1,287 yards on kickoffs and punts.