Eagles Can't Pass on LSU WR Justin Jefferson if He's Available at No. 21 Pick
By Jerry Trotta
The Philadelphia Eagles have no choice to but to utilize this year's NFL Draft to address the team's blatant need at wide receiver. Luckily for general manager Howie Roseman, the latest projections are making things as straightforward as possible.
Mel Kiper's mock draft 3.0 has the Eagles selecting former LSU stud Justin Jefferson with the No. 21 overall pick, and we couldn't think of a better fit. If he's available, Philly needs to pounce.
Mel Kiper’s third mock draft has the Eagles taking Justin Jefferson at No. 21 https://t.co/1tZzObwy4L
— Brandon Lee Gowton (@BrandonGowton) March 24, 2020
Despite the team's glaring issue, the Eagles remained passive and let the top two receivers available on the trade market -- DeAndre Hopkins and Stefon Diggs -- find new homes. Philadelphia could still yet trade disgruntled veteran Alshon Jeffery, so passing on Jefferson, if he's still there for the taking, just isn't an option.
Jefferson formed a captivating rapport with Joe Burrow at LSU. In this final season in Baton Rouge, the 21-year-old pass catcher hauled in 111 receptions for 1,540 yards and a whopping 18 touchdowns across 15 games.
21. #Eagles—WR Justin Jefferson, LSU
— Matt Miller (@nfldraftscout) March 21, 2020
Analysis:
They didn't land Diggs, Hopkins or the top FA wide receivers. This is a huge need that can't be bypassed--even if there is a linebacker like Kenneth Murray still on the board.
He might not be the dominant outside threat that fans in the City of Brotherly Love have been asking for, but at 6-2, 192 pounds, Jefferson will be an elite slot receiver from Day 1. Carson Wentz needs more weapons, and Jefferson projects to be the best available at No. 21.
It's that simple.