Mock draft roundup: Eagles add LSU LB/Edge K’Lavon Chaisson to their defense
28 February 2020 Uncategorized
Here’s a first, for the first time this mock draft season, the Philadelphia Eagles aren’t taking a wide receiver.
This latest CBSSports mock draft has the Eagles taking LSU LB/DE K’Lavon Chaisson.
“Philadelphia is not in the business of reaching to fill a need so they let the board fall in place before selecting Chaisson to address the Sam. Chaisson could be a sack producer if a team cuts him loose and allows him to play more freely.” (https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2020-nfl-mock-draft-redskins-take-tua-tagovailoa-with-plan-to-trade-dwayne-haskins-four-qbs-go-in-top-six/amp/)
Here’s a scouting report on Chaisson.
“Possessing an impressive diversity of moldable pass-rushing ingredients and moves, Chaisson has begun putting the recipe together to become a game-altering pass rusher. While some long-limbed rushers lack the bend and leverage to maximize their length, his fluidity and agility allow him to dip, corner, change direction and close in tight quarters or with extended range. He’s not a physical run defender and might be a liability early in his career against power. Chaisson’s stock has gained momentum with his surging performance matching the elite athletic qualities. It adds up to an increasingly confident projection as an impact pass-rusher with Pro-Bowl potential.” (NFL.com)
Now, if the Eagles are to go with the best option available, Chaisson is an option. He could play the SAM position, however, his pass rushing ability could put him at defensive end for the Eagles. He’s been described as a “sack guru” and you can never have enough players on your team that can get to the quarterback; the San Francisco 49ers proved that.
When asked about his worth at the combine, here’s what Chaisson had to say.
“Are you going to hire somebody that speaks one language or three languages. I can rush the passer, I can stop the run and I can run in coverage with anybody.“
He does do it all, and he has more potential that still has to be reached. Learning behind a player like Brandon Graham could really be beneficial for not just him, but the Eagles in the long term. With Graham getting older and Vinny Curry a free agent this season, the Eagles do have a need in that position. Adding to the defensive end department does make sense. Most of Philadelphia want a wide receiver but if Chaisson falls, he would be a good addition to this team.
Mock Draft Roundup:
Daniel Jeremiah NFL.com: Henry Ruggs WR Alabama
Lance Zierlein NFL.com: CeeDee Lamb WR Oklahoma
Todd McShay ESPN: Henry Ruggs WR Alabama
Josh Edwards CBSSports: K’Lavon Chaisson Edge LSU
Photo Credit: Chuck Cook-USA TODAY Sports