2023 NFL mock draft roundup: Eagles load up on dynamic defenders, land RB Jahmyr Gibbs

Bryan Bresee, DT, Clemson

Reid: Bresee would be a great fit because of his explosiveness, consistency as a pass-rusher (2.5 sacks and 14 pressures in seven games) and ability to penetrate the first level as a run defender. With Cox and Javon Hargrave scheduled to become free agents in the offseason, Philadelphia might have a need there in 2023.

Miller: My early comp for Bresee is the Giants’ Leonard Williams. He’s so good at the point of attack, and like Williams at USC, he rarely loses ground or gets rocked back in the run game. Bresee has become more of a well-rounded defensive tackle this season, playing with more strength, and it’s obvious he can be a three-down asset.

It’s not that the Eagles need another edge-rusher; we’re talking about improvements to perhaps the NFL’s most loaded roster. What makes Murphy such an interesting option for Jonathan Gannon’s defense is that, at 6-foot-5 and 275 pounds, he’s able to win on the edge, and kick inside on passing downs. For a team that runs as many five-man and overload fronts as the Eagles do, and as multiple as they are with their line personnel, Murphy would be a great addition for several different reasons.

As was the case with edge-rushers and the Myles Murphy pick at 10, the Eagles don’t really need a running back. They’re in the enviable position of not desperately needing anything, so with two first-round picks in this draft, they can load up to make certain things more dynamic. Philly’s offense is more about body blows and the run game feeding the passing game, and Gibbs would be an amazing fit with that overall concept. On runs out of run-pass options this season, Gibbs has 75 carries for 623 yards 4.1 yards after contact per attempt, and four touchdowns. Try dealing with THAT if you’re scheming for everything this offense can do.

Wilson displays uncommon swiftness off the snap of the ball, quickly extending his lengthy arms to gain leverage past blockers. Slippery and nimble for a man his size (6’6″, 275 lbs), Wilson’s bendability around the edge is difficult to gauge, complicating blockers attempts at containing his pass rush. An extremely productive player, Wilson’s 27.5 tackles for loss and 14 sacks over the last 23 games indicate his potential at the next level.

Gonzalez is an explosive talent with legitimate NFL speed, a 42-inch verticle and a physicality that places receivers in distress. Although the Eagles secondary intercepted 13 passes in 10 games this season, they’ve also allowed 10 passing scores, too. Philadelphia might consider taking Gonzalez to shore up its pass defense. With above average change-of-direction ability, aggressive man to man coverage skills and his proficiency in zone schemes Gonzalez should be a targeted asset for NFL teams.

Skoronski is a bit of a luxury pick, but he has the flexibility to play any one of the five starting offensive line positions. There is value in having one player capable of fulfilling so many roles while taking up just one roster spot.

Versatility is the theme for Philadelphia in this draft class. The Eagles added Peter Skoronski earlier in the round and he is capable of playing every position up and down the offensive line. Branch is similarly flexible and can fulfill a variety of roles in that Philadelphia secondary.

The Eagles are still scheduled to potentially lose a lot of talent on the edge this offseason, making scouting the 2023 NFL Draft EDGE class a heightened priority. With their top-10 selection, Myles Murphy is a difficult prospect to pass on if he’s there. He’s a 6’5″, 275-pound menace with terrific composite power and short-area athleticism.

This is a value addition for the Eagles, who get a hyper-versatile defensive piece at the second level. Trenton Simpson could stand to improve his play strength at the next level, but he’s an absolute queen on the chess board. He has the athleticism, range, and football IQ to do whatever a defense needs.

The Eagles have the best record in the NFL, but thanks to last year’s draft-day trade with the Saints, they could still end up with a top-10 pick. There aren’t many glaring needs on this roster, so opting for overall value should be their top priority. In this scenario, that means taking a plug-and-play blocker in Skoronski.

Jalen Hurts has this offensive running on all cylinders, but a versatile, explosive weapon like Gibbs could help take the unit to another level. The Georgia Tech transfer has been an absolute stud for the Crimson Tide, and one of the most dynamic players in all of college football when the ball’s in his hands.