The Philadelphia Eagles are coming off a championship season, but with potential changes in the secondary, Virginia Tech’s Dorian Strong could be a valuable addition in the 2025 NFL Draft.
The Eagles had a standout season, capturing their first Super Bowl title since 2018 and just the second in franchise history. A major factor in their success was their aggressive offseason approach. Their biggest acquisition, running back Saquon Barkley, led the NFL in rushing, while their 2024 NFL Draft class also played a key role. In particular, rookie cornerbacks Quinyon Mitchell and Cooper DeJean provided an immediate impact.
Despite their young talent at the position, the Eagles could still look to add depth in the 2025 NFL Draft, especially if veterans James Bradberry and Darius Slay Jr. are no longer with the team. One prospect they’ve already met with who could be a strong replacement is Virginia Tech’s Dorian Strong.
Scouting Dorian Strong
Strong has been one of the ACC’s top cornerbacks over the past few seasons. In 2023, he earned third-team All-ACC honors after leading all FBS cornerbacks in completion rate allowed (27.3%) and yards allowed per coverage snap (0.24), while ranking second in passer rating allowed (11.8), according to Pro Football Focus. Though he was an honorable mention in 2024, he remained effective, allowing just 47% of passes thrown his way to be completed.
His physicality is one of his biggest strengths. He doesn’t shy away from challenging receivers at the catch point, breaking up 14 passes over the past two years. This aggressive playstyle is especially evident in press coverage, where he excels at rerouting wide receivers off the line. Strong is also a willing tackler, wrapping up ball carriers in the open field. The Eagles will likely be drawn to his length, ball skills, and fluid hips, which allow him to turn and run with shifty receivers.
While I have a second-round grade on Strong, his NFL Mock Draft Database consensus grade is a fourth-round projection. Some scouts rank him lower due to occasional struggles in tracking the ball downfield and a tendency to bite on double moves.
More 2025 NFL Draft coverage:
If the Eagles can land him on Day 3, it would be an absolute steal. His playstyle, fluid movement, and high upside could earn him significant snaps as a rookie. He may even impress the coaching staff enough to keep Cooper DeJean at nickel while starting opposite Quinyon Mitchell.