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The Philadelphia Eagles had a rough go in the 2020 season. After a tough season, the front office is trying to right the ship after acquiring nine new players through the 2021 NFL draft. With holes throughout the roster, the Eagles have made multiple moves this offseason to improve the roster.
One of the more under-appreciated maneuvers made by the front office was trading back to 12th overall with the Miami Dolphins. Philadelphia was able to pick up an additional first-round selection in the 2022 NFL draft, which bodes well for the building process for this franchise.
The NFC East is wide open right now after the Washington Football Team clinched the division with just a 7-9 record. Even though the Eagles are an incredibly young team and are still looking to improve the roster, this rookie class could provide enough of an upgrade to help push this team back into the playoff race.
Wide receiver, offensive line, and defense were the biggest needs heading into the draft and the Eagles front office focused on exactly that. This team should see improvement next year, as this franchise did a solid job in the draft. Here are the Philadelphia Eagles 2021 NFL draft grades for every pick.
Philadelphia Eagles 2021 NFL Draft Grades
1. 10 DeVonta Smith, WR: A+
After winning the Heisman Trophy, DeVonta Smith wound up being a top 10 selection. He's one of the most electrifying receiver prospects we've ever seen, as he completely torched his opponents during his final year at Alabama. The Eagles needed help at wide receiver and they got it after taking Smith 10th overall. Look for him to make an immediate impact for Philadelphia Eagles next year.
2. 37 Landon Dickerson, C: A
The offensive line was an issue for the Eagles last year and they made sure to fix that in the draft. Landon Dickerson, also a prospect out of Alabama, comes into Philadelphia looking for a starting role. He won't take time away from Jason Kelce, but rather, Dickerson can play guard until Kelce retires, then revert back to center. The Eagles snagged a two-for-one player that vastly improves the offensive line.
3. 73 Milton Williams, DT: A-
Coming out of Louisianna Tech, Milton Williams has the potential to be a solid rotational player for the Eagles immediately. He's capable of playing inside and out, playing both defensive tackle and defensive end in college. Williams stops the run well and averaged five sacks per year in his final two seasons at Louisianna Tech. Look for Williams to slowly make his way onto the field and becoming a starter in the future.
4. 123 Zech McPhearson, CB: B+
Another desperate need for the Philadelphia Eagles was cornerback, and they got a solid prospect in the fourth round. Zech McPhearson has been a solid cornerback during his time at Texas Tech. He played a vital role in his final two seasons, racking up 104 total tackles, two fumble recoveries, and four interceptions. He'll immediately compete for the slot corner position, making him a smart selection by the front office.
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5. 150 Kenneth Gainwell, RB: A
One of the best running backs available in the draft, Kenneth Gainwell aims to bring a new element to the Eagles offense. Playing as a dominant force during his time at Memphis, Gainwell has the ability to be a solid runner and provides consistency in the passing game. It's unclear how he fits into the roster in 2021, as Boston Scott has been a solid pass-option running back in Philadelphia. However, look for Gainwell to become more involved in 2022, as Scott is set to hit free agency next offseason.
6. 189 Marlon Tuipulotu, DT: C+
After only playing five games last season, Marlon Tuipulotu was on pace to have the best season of his collegiate career. He's a big-bodied defensive tackle at 6-3, 305 pounds. His main job is to come in and plug the holes, which is exactly how the Philadelphia Eagles will use him. Philadelphia has a ton of depth at defensive tackle, but Tuipulotu will have an opportunity to earn a spot on the roster.
6. 191 Tarron Jackson, DE: B
Coastal Carolina made some noise in college football last season and Tarron Jackson was a big contributor. He played defensive tackle his first two years, but then made the switch to defensive end where he took off. He acquired 18 of his 24.5 career sacks after becoming a defensive end. Jackson is considered to be one of the better late-round fliers in the draft this year, as he'll have an opportunity to become a rotational player in his rookie season.
6. 224 JaCoby Stevens, LB: C+
JaCoby Stevens might not be a starter in the NFL, but he has all of the potential in the world to be a legitimate special teamer. He's more of a linebacker/safety hybrid, who could make some noise on the kickoff and punt teams. It'll be interesting to see what position the Eagles put him in.
7. 234 Patrick Johnson, LB: C
Another potential special teams expert. Patrick Johnson comes out of Tulane and hopes to make an NFL roster this year. With plenty of depth in that position right now for the Eagles, it'll be tough for Johnson to find time playing for Philadelphia next season. His best bet is to make it on the special teams unit for the Philadelphia Eagles.
