2015 NFL Draft Rumors: Philadelphia Eagles Would Be Smart to Trade Up for Marcus Mariota
Getty Images
Ever since it became clear Marcus Mariota was on his way to becoming a top pick in the 2015 NFL Draft, the 2014 Heisman Trophy winner has been linked to his former University of Oregon coach, and current Philadelphia Eagles head coach, Chip Kelly. After receiving sub-par quarterback play this past season from Nick Foles and Mark Sanchez, the Eagles would be smart to do whatever they can to trade up in the draft and acquire a franchise-changing player like Mariota.
After a breakout second season for Foles in 2013 that saw the 2012 third-round pick throw for 27 touchdowns with only two interceptions, it looked as if Chip Kelly and the Eagles had found their man at quarterback for the foreseeable future. Foles regressed in the first half of the 2014 season before missing the rest of the season with a broken collarbone. There are rightfully some major question marks as to whether Foles is the answer at quarterback in Philadelphia.
Along with Florida State quarterback and 2013 Heisman Trophy winner Jameis Winston, Mariota is one of the favorites to be the No. 1 selection in the 2015 NFL Draft. That first pick is currently owned by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, a team in dire need of a young quarterback to build their team around. With highly-regarded prospects like Mariota and Winston available, it would take a serious bounty of early-round draft picks to trade with Tampa Bay and make the move all way up to that top selection.
The only real detractor holding Mariota back from being the sure-fire No. 1 pick is the question marks over how he will transition from Oregon’s “gimmicky” offense to a more prototypical pro-style NFL offense. Being NFL ready right out of the gate as a quarterback is of significant importance to teams. If Mariota were to be drafted by Chip Kelly and into an offense he’s already familiar with, that learning curve flattens out considerably.
The Eagles currently hold the No. 20 pick in the draft, making the jump all the way to the top anything but easy. It would most likely require a trade involving multiple first-round picks over the next few years, similar to the trade the Washington Redskins pulled off in 2012 with the St. Louis Rams to acquire Robert Griffin III with the No. 2 pick.
After just missing out on the playoffs with a 10-6 record, even with questionable play out of the quarterback position, the Eagles are definitely on the cusp of becoming real contenders. Coach Kelly once called Mariota the “most talented kid I coached in college,” and correctly predicted he would win the Heisman one day when Mariota was just a freshman at Oregon. The time is ripe for Philadelphia to gamble and do just about whatever it takes to reunite their coach with his former quarterback.
Seahawks, Lynch On Verge of Agreeing to Deal?
If the rumors are true, Marshawn Lynch will be suiting up for the Seattle Seahawks next season. Read More
Biggest Takeaways From NFL Combine On Feb. 21
When QB, RB and WR drills take place, there's always a lot to discuss. Here are the biggest takeaways from the Combine's biggest day. Read More
5 Atlanta Falcons Rumors You Need To Know
With the combine currently underway and free agency set to start soon, here's a look at five of the biggest rumors surrounding the Atlanta Falcons. Read More
Vikings Should Think Defensive End In First Round
The Minnesota Vikings lack depth at defensive end and should look to draft Dante Fowler Jr. in the first round. Read More
Jaguars' 5 Potential 2015 Playoff Opponents
The Jacksonville Jaguars have struggle over the past few seasons and will look to turn things around in 2015. Here are some potential playoff opponents if they sneak into the postseason. Read More
Releasing Mike Pollack a Big Mistake By Bengals
The Cincinnati Bengals announced that they released Mike Pollack on Friday. He has been a solid back-up offensive guard for the Bengals the last 2 years which makes this a questionable decision. Read More
Top 11 Patriots Newcomers of 2014
Let’s reflect on the most influential additions the Patriots made over the course of last offseason and 2014 regular season. Read More
Raiders Should Find Way to Draft Williams
If the Oakland Raiders want to return to relevance, finding a way to draft Leonard Williams should be the top priority. Read More
Biggest Takeaways From NFL Combine On Feb. 20
On the first day of workout drills, there were plenty of storylines on and off the field. Here are the biggest takeaways from 2015 NFL Combine on Feb. 20. Read More
Questions All Teams Should Ask At Scouting Combine
With the NFL scouting combine in full swing, here are 10 questions every team should ask players at the combine. Read More
15 Symptoms Of Football Withdrawal
If you believe you're going through football withdrawal, check and see if you suffer from any of these symptoms. If any apply, see a doctor near you. Read More
Cardinals' 5 Potential 2015 Playoff Opponents
The Arizona Cardinals made their first playoff appearance in five years last season. Fans should expect another one in 2015, and here are some teams they may have to face. Read More