Incredible news: The Eagles have chosen their top three players for the 2024 preseason.
Even though the Eagles’ offense ranks in the top ten, only seven teams allow more points than Philadelphia. In the 2024 NFL Draft, these prospects would be helpful and should be accessible as late first-round selections.
Miami’s Kamren Kinchens (S)
Philadelphia’s disjointed approach to filling the safety position in 2023 has proven ineffective. Although Reed Blankenship, a former undrafted free agent, performed well enough to be given play-calling responsibilities against the Giants, he could still use some assistance in center field.
In his three years with the Hurricanes, Kinchens totaled 162 tackles (99 solo), 11 interceptions, and two touchdowns. Recognized for his forceful hits, he was sent to the hospital following an early-season tackle against Texas A&M. However, he made a comeback a month later and had four interceptions in his subsequent six games.
Kinchens is the best safety available in this year’s draft, according to ESPN’s Mel Kiper Jr., because of his excellent coverage skills and good size (6-foot, 205 pounds). He is rated highly by Pro Football Focus as well, ranking as their No. 15 prospect overall.
Since Georgia’s Ben Smith in 1990, the Eagles have not selected a first-round safety. However, given the team’s 27th-ranked pass defense, general manager Howie Roseman might need to step up to the plate and make the selection.
Dallas Turner of Alabama (EDGE)
Haason Reddick of Philadelphia led the team in sacks (16) in 2022, but he wasn’t happy with his 2023 contract and won’t have any guaranteed money in 2024. Nolan Smith, a former Bulldog, was selected by the team in the first round of the draft as a linebacker from Georgia, but he hasn’t lived up to expectations.
Turner led the Crimson Tide in sacks with nine during his stellar season. The consensus All-American, who stands 6-foot-4 and weighs 242 pounds, is bigger than both Reddick and Smith combined, making him a potential backup linebacker for Philly in the event that Reddick leaves.
Georgia’s Kamari Lassiter (CB)
While he was a member of the NFL’s top secondary in 2022, cornerback James Bradberry appears to have lost his edge. The Eagles signed him to a three-year contract in the offseason. He is frequently targeted by opposing quarterbacks, and he hasn’t lived up to the challenge thus far.
Philadelphia might benefit from having another Georgia player. On defense, they already have five former Bulldogs, including cornerback Kelee Ringo, the team’s 2023 fourth-round selection. Lassiter isn’t the ball-hawk some fans hope for, as he has only one interception in three years at Georgia; however, his quick feet and keen instincts make him an excellent run support player who can also play man or zone coverage.
With veteran cornerbacks like Bradberry (30) and Darius Slay (32) on the field, Philadelphia would be wise to start Lassiter outside alongside his former college roommate.
