Philadelphia Eagles seven-round 2021 NFL mock draft

After a contentious ending to their regular season, the Philadelphia Eagles look to re-enter the race for the NFC East crown.

After such a disgruntling end to the season, the Philadelphia Eagles find themselves holding the sixth overall selection in the 2021 NFL Draft. Offensive woes under former franchise quarterback Carson Wentz hampered any chance of competing within the NFC East from the beginning of the season, but a late emergence from former Alabama and Oklahoma quarterback Jalen Hurts put the team into position for growth entering the 2021 offseason.

Rookie wide receiver Jalen Reagor has been unable to quell the need for a number one wide receiver, and upstart Travis Fulgham can only do so much on his own. The impending loss of Zach Ertz will also be felt through the offense, but can hopefully be supplemented by Dallas Goedert.

Numerous needs on the defensive side of the ball lead the 2021 NFL Draft needs for the Eagles, including a raw lack of talent at the linebacker position and a mass exodus of core players within the Philadelphia secondary. The Eagles’ defense has made their living on the defensive line with efficient spending in the secondary, and the 2021 NFL Draft will continue that tradition with inexpensive rookie contracts.

Round 1

Heisman-winner Devonta Smith has made sure his name is considered right alongside LSU’s Ja’Marr Chase. This selection could go either way between the two depending upon the selections previous (specifically Miami at number three overall), but both players would bring a long-needed lead-receiver to the offense.

With fellow 2021 NFL Draft prospect and teammate Jaylen Waddle quickly removed from the Alabama passing attack for the season due to an ankle injury, Smith became the clear number one receiver for quarterback Mac Jones with 105 receptions through 12 games, including 20 touchdowns and a 15.6 yards per catch average. Smith racked up these numbers on all three levels from any alignment with the perfect blend of speed, acceleration, and agility.

Smith is the best route-runner of the 2021 NFL Draft and will be capable of creating separation from day one, similar to former Alabama product and Denver Bronco’s wide receiver Jerry Jeudy. Combine this with raw athleticism to create plays from scratch, Smith just needs to add onto a currently slight 174-pound frame to address any current durability concerns (despite a relatively small injury history).