ESPN’s Sal Paolantonio reports that the Eagles are in discussions with the Dolphins about trading up to No. 12 in tonight’s NFL draft. Per the report, Philly has its sights set on Texas safety Earl Thomas.
After acquiring receiver Brandon Marshall from Denver a couple of weeks ago, pass rusher remains Miami’s biggest need. But Bill Parcells knows that drafting pass rushers is a major risk, especially in the top 15. In most cases, a defensive end won’t have an impact until his third or even fourth year because he has to learn how to play against offensive tackles that have mastered proper blocking techniques.
With that in mind, Parcells knows he can drop down in the first round, acquire extra picks and still add a quality player at No. 24 (which is where the Eagles are slated to pick). It’s a great move if he can pull it off.
As for the Eagles, their recent trade with the Lions for OLB Ernie Sims allows them to concentrate on the safety position in the first round. But their fear is probably that the Texans will take Thomas at No. 21, hence their efforts to trade up to No. 12. Philly better hope that Jacksonville at No. 10 doesn’t take him first, however.
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