For the second straight year, the Eagles traded out of Round One. This time around, the Eagles not only were able to get players who should contribute right away, they also stocked up for next year with the Panthers’ first-round pick in 2009. The Eagles moved down twice before picking, finally taking DT Trevor Laws, a high-energy run stopper who led Notre Dame in tackles and shares many qualities with Mike Patterson. Laws should be the third tackle in a scheme that rotates frequently up front. WR-RS DeSean Jackson fills two needs as a slot receiver with wheels and as an electric returner. The knock on him is that he might not be able to stand up to full-time duty at 169 pounds. Bryan Smith might end up at weak-side linebacker, and he fits the mold of what Jim Johnson looks for in his defenders. Smith is undersized, but he’s used to battling bigger players as a college D-end. Pitt OL Mike McGlynn showed a physical and nasty side and could figure in at guard now. S Quintin Demps fills a need as a playmaker (17 career interceptions), but he needs to work on his technique in coverage. CB Jack Ikegwuonu carries first-round talent but also questions. He’s coming off a torn ACL and might need a year of recovery and also carries character questions. Mike Gibson was a college tackle who also might factor inside. He’s a hard worker who brings versatility. ILB Joe Mays must make it as a two-down defender and special-teamer, although he did have a good pro day. An interesting sleeper is DE-OLB Andy Studebaker, who had great production in D-III and has a little bit of Chris Gocong in him. OT King Dunlap has monster height (6-foot-9) and reach but has to show that a disastrous senior season (he was benched in favor of a freshman) was an aberration.
