Landry & Kolb for Eagles and Skins
Philadelphia Eagles and Washington Redskins Draft Picks
The Washington Redskins drafted safety, LaRon Landry to lead their defense, as the Philadelphia Eagles selected Kevin Kolb as the heir apparent to Donovan McNabb.
Having traded away most of their picks the Redskins had to get quality with the choices they did make, LaRon Landry is just that, quality. A starter from day one, LaRon combines outstanding physical ability with a cerebral sense about his game; he should make a dynamite partner with Sean Taylor.
Dallas Sartz and H.B. Blades will battle for playing time as they join an experienced but underachieving group of linebackers. Jordan Palmer will watch from the bench as he learns from Mark Brunell and Jason Campbell. A very long shot to make the team, tight end, Tyler Ecker has to improve his mobility and overall athleticism.
Coach Gibbs has his work cut out for him this year, he must improve the defense, primarily the pash rush. When your team is last in sacks, you can pretty much guess that your defensive backs are constantly put to the test in coverage, and at this level that means you give up a lot of points.
We all know that the drafting of Kevin Kolb doesn’t affect Donovan McNabb at all, it affects back up quarterback A.J. Feeley. Kolb will spend this season learning the offense and getting used to working out of a pro system. Defensive end Victor Abiamiri will have time to learn as the Eagles are stacked on both lines with talent and depth. Stewart Bradley joins an experienced group of linebackers, but his size and athletic ability may earn him some spot duty. Tony Hunt figures to be that ‘bigger’ back that Andy Reid has coveted, but he won’t get many touches so he better make the best of the few that he gets, because the running game will run through Brian Westbrook.
Nate Ilaoa may push Thomas Tapeh for time at fullback. Defensive backs, C.J. Gaddis and Rashad Barksdale will have time to learn from a talented veteran secondary and opportunities to get on the field (nickel packages and special teams). Brent Celek should slide into the third tight end position with his big body (261 pounds) he should help out in short yardage and goal line situations.
Rookies drafted by the Eagles won't be called on to come in and change the franchise. Andy Reid has this team stacked withe quality depth at all positions. This years crop of rookies can learn from the veteran's, but if the opportunity presents itself, it is expected that they will be able to excel.
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