NFC East Rivals Address Needs In The First Round And Get Better

Philadelphia Eagles

The Eagles selected EDGE Derek Barnett with the 14th pick. Philly is obviously looking to bolster their pass rush with the departure of Connor Barwin this past offseason. Barnett translates best as a 4-3 rush end so unfortunately, I think this is a very good pick for the Eagles. Fortunately for the Redskins, the team has two bookends at tackle with All-Pro LT Trent Williams and newly inked RT Morgan Moses who signed an extension just yesterday. Barnett should obviously start immediately for the Eagles but I think it will take a few years before he can present a legitimate challenge to Williams and he will have to be on his A game to get past Moses.

New York Giants

It's been widely known this whole draft season that the Giants were looking to either bolster their offensive line or would look to significantly upgrade their TE core. With the selection of Evan Engram with the 23rd pick, the Giants get a versatile player that is a matchup nightmare at the tight end position. Engram is an excellent move and receiving TE prospect. Engram can line up on the outside, in the slot, or inline and be a matchup nightmare and seam buster for linebackers and safeties alike. But some would argue he is more. Let’s not forget some view Engram as essentially a large WR with his great receiving skills and the ability to separate. The Giants could have just selected Jordan Reed 2.0. Eli Manning is aging but a receiving core of Beckham Jr., Shepard, and Engram can be lethal. Su’a Cravens and D.J. Swearinger will have to be vigilant and not overlook the threat of Engram.

Dallas Cowboys

The Cowboys draft plans were also well known this offseason. They were in severe need of CB and EDGE help. The Cowboys bolstered their EDGE presence with the selection of Taco Charlton with the 28th pick. Charlton is not an elite athlete but he can bend and was highly productive off the edge for Michigan. He would fit well into the Cowboys 4-3 base front and provide them quiet yet effective production. Again, I am glad the Redskins have secured their bookends at offensive tackle I think both Williams and Moses should handle Charlton fairly easily this season but must remain disciplined because Charlton is dangerous when he times the snap and is surprisingly flexible for his size. Charlton is also an effort player so they can’t forget about him.