2013 NFL mock draft: Defensive tackles dominate round 1

Our pals at Mocking The Draft put out a new mock draft today and for the first time since probably December... I can say that we're seeing an almost entirely new name being mocked to the Eagles. DT Sheldon Richardon from Missouri.

With the switch to a 3-4, the Philadelphia Eagles have begun to clean house at the defensive tackle position. Last year's first round pick Fletcher Cox projects as a solid fit in the 3-4 scheme, but the Eagles could look to add another end across from him. Sheldon Richardson's quickness and non-stop motor will make him a solid fit for the team's defensive scheme

There's no question that defense tackle (or 3-4 DE) will be high on the Eagles shopping list this offseason. With the release of veterans Cullen Jenkins and Mike Patterson, it's a pretty thin group.

Richardson is certainly not an out of left field pick and is a guy that many believe is a legit top 5 prospect. Last month, former scout and current NFL.com draft guru Bucky Brooks said he rated Richardson above Star Lotulelei.

"Richardson...is an absolute beast," said Brooks. "You don't find a 3 technique that leads your team in tackles like this... You see his ability not only as a pass rusher, but a dominant run defender. He can play the 3 technique, he can play the 1, he can do everything that you want to see from a DT. I think he's a better player than Star Lotulelei."

For full analysis of each pick, check out Mocking the Draft.