In the upcoming 2024 NFL Draft, the Philadelphia Eagles, holding the 22nd overall pick, are speculated to bolster their secondary according to ESPN analyst Mel Kiper. Kiper’s latest mock draft suggests that the Eagles might opt for cornerback Nate Wiggins from Clemson as their first-round selection.
Despite the intention to retain last season’s starting cornerbacks, Darius Slay and James Bradberry, both of whom are in their thirties, the Eagles could be eyeing fresh talent to infuse youth and depth into their secondary.
ESPN’s Mel Kiper sends Nate Wiggins to the Eagles in his most recent NFL mock draft.
From Kiper:
“This has been an offseason of change for the Eagles, who have new coordinators on both sides of the ball and have seen two stalwarts retire in center Jason Kelce and defensive tackle Fletcher Cox. And after a rough end to their season, coach Nick Sirianni finds himself with a few holes on his roster. I almost slotted in a receiver to add to Jalen Hurts’ fantastic set of skill-position talent — how about Xavier Worthy (Texas)? — but I see defense as the bigger problem.
That’s Kiper’s take on why Wiggins would be a great fit in Philly. He continued his thoughts with some numbers:
“Philadelphia ranked 30th in both points allowed per game (25.2) and QBR allowed (55.7), and it was 31st in passing yards allowed to receivers (3,125). Veteran starting corners Darius Slay and James Bradberry are each on the wrong side of 30. Wiggins could step in and play a huge role for a team with Super Bowl aspirations. At 6-foot-1, 173 pounds, he’s slender, but he has elite speed. He ran a blazing 4.28-second 40-yard dash at the combine.”
The Eagles’ decision to pick Wiggins or another cornerback in the first round remains uncertain, as they might opt for a different direction considering other areas of need. Besides cornerback, the team could be eyeing a linebacker or possibly a center, especially with the retirement of Jason Kelce.
Following their loss in the Wild Card Round last season, the Eagles aim to rebound and replicate their deep playoff run from two years ago when they reached the Super Bowl. Making astute draft choices could play a crucial role in their quest for postseason success.