Philadelphia Eagles 2020 NFL Draft: Final Grades, Analysis and Context

Grade: A+

Sticking with the theme of drafting for value, bringing in Jack Driscoll from Auburn in the fourth round was another quality addition to an offensive line known for quality depth pieces.

With the departure of Halapoulivaati Vaitai this offseason, the Philadelphia Eagles lost their most versatile offensive linemen. While Driscoll is listed as a tackle, he can also play guard duties, including playing the right or left sides of the line.

The team’s offensive line is starting to age, with star center Jason Kelce implying two offseasons in a row now that he is considering retirement. If that were to happen, the Philadelphia Eagles would have a contingency plan by moving their current left guard to center. But without versatile Vaitai to take over at left guard, adding another moveable, flexible offensive linemen to the roster in the 2020 NFL Draft makes sense.

Driscoll will have a chance in 2020 to learn the ropes and step in when players are injured or need a break. His ability to play multiple spots on the line is valuable to the Philadelphia Eagles coaching staff, as multiple spots on the offensive line have the potential to be in flux during the 2020 season.

They just released their veteran left tackle and his replacement is hardly a proven player, as he was generally underwhelming in 2019. The starting right tackle and right guard spent several games injured last season and having a contingency plan like Driscoll on the roster gives the team’s offense breathing room, should one of them go down this season.

While Driscoll isn’t as skilled as either one of those starters, he will have an opportunity to learn under offensive line coach Jeff Stoutland, who has a great track record of developing offensive line talent.

Driscoll has the technique and athleticism of an NFL offensive lineman. At 6-foot-5, 300-pounds, it is wild he fell this late in the draft. At Auburn, he showed he can protect the quarterback from pass-rushers and aid rushers on running plays. The fact he was a formidable pass-protector in the SEC proves he can hang in the NFL, as SEC pass-rushers are some of the best in the entire NCAA.

A great pick overall. Finding value this late in the draft is always difficult and its great Roseman picked a player who can add security on the offensive line while not having to pick a boom or bust prospect. Expect Driscoll to play the role previously held by Vaitai.