A Look Back to the 2002 Draft. Similarities?

In 2001 the Philadelphia Eagles had 2 aging, but historically dominate CBs in Bobby Taylor and Troy Vincent. That offseason, the FO knew their aging CBs would have to be replaced, and looked to the draft for help.

The Eagles collected an extra 2nd round pick for a 3rd and 6th rounder in the 2001 draft to give them a total of 3 picks in the first two rounds.

With those picks, they completely rebuilt their defensive backfield with very good results.

The first three Philadelphia Eagles drafted in 2002 were Lito Sheppard, Michael Lewis, and Sheldon Brown. They spent 1 year being understudies of Taylor and Vincent before the verterans were let go for the 2004 season.

The 2004 Eagles secondary was the best I ever remember. Dawkins was still in his prime. Lito and Lewis each made the probowl in their first full year starting. There was argument that Brown deserved the pro bowl bid before Lito. The Eagles went 13-3, and were 3 points from being the best team in the NFL.

Although ultimately the trio didn't work out long term, it has been said that allowing a secondary to develop together is the best way to build an elite unit, rather than a few elite players joining at different points in their career. Could the Eagles be trying a similar approach in the 2010 draft, with Samuel as this years Dawkins (the one veteran remaining)? With the 24th, 37th and 55th overall pick, it sure does seem likely. The three players I see as possbilities are Earl Thomas at 24, Patrick Robinson at 37, and Jerome Murphy at 55.