PHILADELPHIA: The Philadelphia Eagles selected a cornerback in the NFL draft 22 years ago, and what a pick that was.
After being selected 26th overall in the 2002 draft, Lito Sheppard played seven seasons in Philadelphia, making two Pro Bowls, one first-team All-Pro selection, and intercepting eighteen passes in 93 games—61 of which were starts.
That year, the Eagles continued to pepper the position, selecting safety Michael Lewis at No. 58 and cornerback Sheldon Brown at No. 59 after selecting Sheppard. Along with safety Brian Dawkins, they formed the cornerstone of an almost ten-year run of success under Andy Reid, serving as key players in Philly’s 2004 season run to the Super Bowl XXXIX.
The Eagles don’t have to overinvest in cornerbacks this draft, but it’s possible that they could use one certified player to join Josh Jobe, Eli Ricks, and Kelee Ringo, who are among the team’s youthful core of players.
After all, this defense finished last season ranked No. 31 overall, making it among the worst in the league. The Eagles may decide to give the position a serious look in the first round if the spring draft proves to be successful, especially if they decide to part ways with James Bradberry.
Under the salary cap, they won’t save any money by releasing Bradberry with a post-June 1 designation, but it would create a position for a hotshot.
Lead draft analyst for NFL Media Daniel Jeremiah thinks seven or eight cornerbacks could be selected in the first round. Almost 25% of the draft is represented by that. That’s a big amount.
Starting this week, general manager Howie Roseman and Nick Sirianni will speak with reporters for fifteen minutes each on Tuesday afternoon, during the NFL Scouting Combine. The defensive backs and tight ends are working out on Friday. A large portion of this week’s event is being televised by NFL Network.
