:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/30901525/152439367.0.jpg)
The Eagles did not address outside linebacker in free agency to the extent that plenty of fans and members speculated prior to the frenzy. That leads one to believe that they will target the draft in looking for a pass rusher. The Eagles will likely miss out the top pass rushers like Jadeveon Clowney and Khalil Mack, but could have options at pick No. 22 and 54. Boise State's Demarcus Lawrence could be a target as a trade down or at the Eagles second round pick.
College Career
Lawrence started his college career at Butler Community College in El Dorado, Kansas. The native of Aiken, S.C. spent one year in community college and had 66 tackles (27 for loss) and 10 sacks during season-long tenure. He committed to Boise State in 2012 and was named first team All-Mountain West after immediately starting 11 games in his debut year with the Broncos. He finished his sophomore season with 48 tackles (13 for loss) and 9.5 sacks at defensive end.
In his final season at Boise State, Lawrence led the Mountain West with 10.5 sacks and 20.5 tackles for loss. He had 72 tackles overall and was again named first team All-Mountain West.
Combine Numbers
Height: 6'3"
Weight: 251 lbs
Arm Length: 33 3/4"
Hands: 11"
40: 4.80 seconds
Bench: 20 reps
Vertical Jump: 34.5 inches
Broad Jump: 113.0 inches
3 Cone: 7.46 inches
Shuttle: 4.31 seconds (5th among defensive line)
Strengths
Lawrence has a good initial burst and long arms to go along with humongous hands. He has a few pass rushing moves and is not green when it comes to attacking quarterbacks. He uses a speed rush frequently which allows him to get to his spot before his opposing lineman. He was used at defensive end and asked to stunt frequently. He has a very solid inside move and is dominant when being blocked by an interior lineman. He has experience standing up and rushing. He is good about getting into the backfield with consistency.
Weaknesses
Lawrence has limited strength and can easily be blocked out of the run game. He gets manhandled by strong tackles and can get thrown out of a play. He has a poor motor and is of little use against the run. He makes some pretty pathetic tackling attempts at times and rarely makes solo takedowns. He is hesitant at times, which can lead to running backs bursting right by him. He has an odd approach to tackling in general. Hips are stiff, so he tends to have little bend when rushing the passer.
Eagles Outlook
Lawrence has an impressive resume when it comes to getting to the quarterback, but is he best suited as a 3-4 outside linebacker? That is a decision that the Eagles will have to make, as Lawrence has not shown enough in college to be comfortable with him in space or in coverage. The team would likely use him as a pass rushing specialist in his first year and rotate him with Trent Cole. While some have Lawrence has a late-first round pick, he is more than likely to be available in the second round in May.
Trust Your Own Eyes