Tuesday, April 19, 2011

NFC East Draft Preview

As the clock ticks closer to the NFL Draft on April 28-30, we'll be doing our best to preview the team needs of all 32 teams to give you all an outlook on what to expect come draft day. Of course, there are no guarantees with things like mock drafts (even though they are fun to do) so we did our best to get some insight from bloggers/fans of other teams. Today we take a look at the NFC East. Our friends Geoff from Sportslebrity and Kevin from Hogs Haven were cool enough to help us out with some inside perspective on their team needs.

For reference, we compiled the draft picks each team currently has. Compensatory picks are listed in parentheses.

2010 Record: 10-6
NFC East Champions, lost to Packers in Wild Card round

Draft Picks: 23, 54, 85, 104, 120, 149, 153, 227, (237), (240)

The Eagles got a huge lift last year when they inserted Michael Vick at quarterback. On offense, this team isn't lacking at any of the skill positions. With Vick at the helm, LeSean McCoy in the backfield, and DeSean Jackson and Jeremy Maclin at receiver, the offense can beat anyone in a track meet. The offensive line has some holes that need addressed. On defense, the Eagles could use some help in the secondary and depth at linebacker.

Our buddy Geoff from Sportslebrity, who was on the Steelers bandwagon for the playoff run, gave us the 411 on what the Eagles need. You can find him on Twitter @PhillyFansVoice and @sportslebirtyus


1. What are the biggest needs Philadelphia has entering the draft?

Offensive Lineman and Cornerback

2. Do you think Philadelphia will address those needs in the draft or wait for free agency?

Cornerback will be addressed in free agency and offensive line through the draft

3. What players would you like to see the Eagles target in the draft?

Mike Pouncey or Gabe Carimi


2010 Record: 10-6

Draft Picks: 19, 52, 83, 117, 185, (198), (202), 221

The Giants had an up-and-down 2010 season that was marked by injuries throughout their lineup. Their once-dominante running game was inconsistent at best. Their passing game went from seeming elite to struggling to complete a pass when Steve Smith and Hakeem Nicks suffered injuries. The Giants could use some help along the offensive line as well as in the secondary. A run-stuffing defensive tackle would be a good addition to their line and they could use more depth in their linebacking corps.


2010 Record: 6-10

Draft Picks: 10, 41, 144, 155, 177, 213, 224, (253)

The Redskins brought in Mike Shanahan and Donovan McNabb to help turn things around. However, rather than contending for a division title the 'Skins wallowed in mediocrity most of the season. Shanahan benched McNabb multiple times during the season, at one point inserting Rex Grossman with 2 minutes to go in the game. McNabb figures to be on his way out and the Redskins need a ton of help all over the field. The Albert Haynesworth experiment was a complete failure, leaving the Skins with a gaping hole in their defensive front. Injuries plagued the Redskins backfield last year and their receiving corps is far from elite.

The guys from Hogs Haven hit us up with what's going down in the Nation's Capital (besides Congress' approval rating).


1. What are the biggest needs your team has entering the draft?



Everywhere but TE and FS, sadly. Nose Tackle, OLB, and Offensive Line (all positions) are the most desperate needs. 

2. Do you think your team will address those needs in the draft or wait for free agency?

Haha, with this many, yes. It would surprise me if the Redskins don't trade back given we're missing our 3rd and 4th round picks. We need starters, not superstars.

3. What players would you like to see your team target in the draft?

Von Miller, Phil Taylor, Mike Pouncey.



2010 Record: 6-10

Draft Picks: 9, 40, 71, 110, 143, 176, 220, (252)

Dallas' 2010 season was marked by Tony Romo's injury and Wade Phillips' complete inability to coach an NFL team. Jason Garrett turned things around when he was appointed midseason as the head coach. The Cowboys have the offensive firepower to be a threat, but need a better line to protect Romo and create holes for their running backs. Their secondary is in shambles, ranking 26th in the league last year. They need help both at safety and corner and on the defensive line, as their run defense wasn't much better than their pass defense.

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