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

As mentioned earlier, the Philadelphia Eagles linebacker position is arguably the weakest spot on the defense. Leaving this spot with so little talent leaves the middle of the field compromised, as the defensive line is left solely responsible for run-stopping and pressure.

Taylor brings speed and coverage skills to the linebacker spot but the roster still needed addressing as of the sixth round. If Taylor’s role is to be that outside linebacker who drops into coverage, then sixth-rounder Shaun Bradley will be that true will linebacker who stays downfield and protects the middle of the field.

Playing for Temple, Roseman and the team’s scouts likely got plenty of opportunities to watch Bradley, as Temple plays their home games at the Lincoln-Financial Field. Bradley was part of Temples’ excellent front-seven group that has shown long stretches of dominance over the last two seasons. The unit kept opposing teams from moving the ball all last season, giving up more than 22 points in just three games.

A local kid from New Jersey, Bradley stepped into the starting linebacker role in 2017 and found a role there as a run-blocking weakside linebacker. His speed and athleticism allowed him to get to the running back quickly before he crossed the line of scrimmage and catch up with any who might have given him the slip. Anyone looking to dismiss the pick because he played for Temple should watch the highlight reel below:

What put Bradley over the edge were his Combine numbers, where he tested exceptionally well in the 40-yard, 10-yard split and the broad jump. At 6-foot-1, 235-pounds, Bradley has the raw materials to make a good linebacker.

That being said, he is incredibly unpolished and will need time to develop in the NFL. But drafting a local kid who has potential is always a feel-good story and who doesn’t love that? In two years, he might be good enough to become a starting inside linebacker. But as of today, he is just a depth piece, destined to play special teams and the occasional rotation play.

Still, in the sixth round taking a lottery ticket on a position of need is about the best you can hope for in the 2020 NFL Draft.