NFL Trade Machine: Eagles Keen To Unload Marcus Smith?
By Erik Lambert
Aug 21, 2014; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Philadelphia Eagles linebacker Marcus Smith (90) and Pittsburgh Steelers tackle Marcus Gilbert (77) battle during the second quarter at Lincoln Financial Field. The Eagles defeated the Steelers, 31-21. Mandatory Credit: Eric Hartline-USA TODAY Sports
Not every 1st round pick in a draft works out. It’s just an NFL fact that every franchise knows too well. The Philadelphia Eagles are no exception. They had grand ideas in mind when they selected Marcus Smith out of Louisville back in May. He had just finished a standout season, collecting 14.5 sacks for the Cardinals. It was hoped he could successfully make the switch from defensive end to outside linebacker to fit the Eagles’ 3-4 scheme.
However, that doesn’t mean he was their primary target. Philadelphia actually traded back in the 1st round before selecting him, which hinted all the players they’d wanted were taken before they picked. In desperate need to add some youth to their pass rush, Smith was the best option on the board and they took him.
"“The Eagles, meanwhile, aren’t publicly panicking about Smith’s slow progress. Coach Chip Kelly has said that Smith needs to prove in practice that he’s better than the alternative before he can play significant snaps. Kelly also said that he doesn’t get caught up in which round a player was drafted.”"
His first significant action is expected to come on Thanksgiving in a huge matchup with the Dallas Cowboys. If he can take advantage of the limited opportunities, he may change some minds but if that doesn’t happen then will the Philadelphia Eagles brass act quickly to rectify their mistake?
Marcus Smith is very young and still has loads of NFL value. While getting their 1st round pick back isn’t likely, it’s possible a team with a system more attune to his style and needing pass rush help will jump at the chance to get him. It’s not crazy to think Philadelphia can get back a 2nd rounder to minimize the damage.
Much will depend on what happens November 27th.