ESPN's Kiper gives 'A' grade to Clemson-heavy draft for team

Will Shipley will look to compete for a key role right away with the Eagles.

by TigerNet Staff - Sun Apr 28 13:45:03 GMT-04:00 2024

The Philadelphia Eagles were making moves and also picking some Clemson Tigers this week.

The Eagles made eight trades in all, including one to move up and take Philly NFL legacy and All-American linebacker Jeremiah Trotter Jr. in the fifth round on Saturday. The Eagles selected former Clemson running back Will Shipley one round before that.

ESPN's Mel Kiper Jr. gave Philadelphia an 'A' grade for the draft.

"Will Shipley (127) is an interesting one. He put up 1,200 all-purpose yards in each of the past three seasons," Kiper wrote. "Could he carve out a spot as the third-down back? Linebacker Jeremiah Trotter Jr. (155) is a value in my rankings; I have him at No. 108 overall -- and, of course, his dad is an Eagles legend. I'm also intrigued by 6-foot-6 wideout Johnny Wilson (185), who dropped too many passes but who has size that can't be taught.

"Because of everything Roseman acquired in next year's draft and because of the talent he accumulated this weekend, I feel great about making this class an A."

The 12-man Arizona Cardinals class, which included a fifth-round pick for Xavier Thomas, also garnered an 'A.'

The Ravens and first-round pick Nate Wiggins picked up a 'B+.'

"Nate Wiggins (30) is one of the fastest cornerbacks in this class, a long and gifted cover man with good instincts. Though he's a little light at 173 pounds, he'll grow into his frame in time," Kiper said.

The Rams and sixth-round pick Tyler Davis were also in the 'B+' tier.

Atlanta brought up the rear with a 'C' grade with a bit of a head-scratcher in the first round in picking a QB and then having to trade away an asset to pick up Ruke Orhorhoro in the second round.

"Defensive tackle Ruke Orhorhoro (35) is a stout run-defender, but Fontenot had to give up his extra third-rounder to move up eight spots to get Orhorhoro," Kiper said.