Philadelphia Eagles seven-round 2020 NFL Mock Draft
By John Newman
Michael Divinity. 158. Pick Analysis. Defensive End. LSU. Scouting Report. player. 54
Only Vinny Curry is projected to be a free agent after next year at the defensive end position. But as we discussed in the first round, GM Howie Roseman loves to stock up his defensive line and keep rotational players available. Considering how demanding the position is physically, it would be worth it for the Philadelphia Eagles to invest in some more depth at the position.
The position hasn’t been the same since Chris Long left after the 2018 season, and the team has worked hard to make up for his loss. But the team needs depth and players who can get after opposing quarterbacks.
In 2019, the Philadelphia Eagles only have 10 forced fumbles in 12 weeks according to the team’s website, and it is those key turnovers that can re-define a game.
Michael Divinity, the LSU senior has played for the team as a sort of hybrid linebacker/outside pass rusher in LSU’s 3-4 base defense. But at 6-foot-2 240 pounds, he’s only a bit lighter than Chris Long was when he left the team. Divinity has the speed and burst to rush the passer, but could use some help with technique going forward.
To be honest, with the Philadelphia Eagles 4-3 base defense, it would be more likely that Divinity would play as a linebacker. Which is also a position the team really needs some stability at. Divinity has the speed, the instincts, the experience to play the linebacker position. And after Jordan Hicks departed for the Arizona Cardinals in free agency last year, the team has looked for a permanent player in the linebacker role.
In the later rounds, it’s tough to know exactly how their skills will translate at the NFL level. But at this point, the linebacker position has been a Ferris wheel this year, and the only players who have played consistently have been Kamu-Grugier Hill and Nigel Bradham. Who just happen to be free agents after this season and have a hard time staying healthy.
Whether the Philadelphia Eagles decide to use Divinity as a defensive end or linebacker, the LSU senior has the speed and size to play both positions, and I believe with a bit of time and coaching, he could become a strong piece in the Philadelphia Eagles front seven for years to come, either a depth piece or as a bona fide starter.