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According to a report from Aaron Wilson of the National Football Post, the Philadelphia Eagles recently hosted 2015 NFL Draft prospect La'el Collins for a pre-draft visit. Collins is just the second (known) offensive line prospect to meet with Philadelphia. The first was Terry Poole of San Diego State University.
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Collins is a player whom Chip Kelly already got a chance to see this offseason when he visited LSU's pro day. Here's what we wrote at the time:
"Collins measures in at 6-4, 305 pounds. The 21-year-old senior has the versatility to multiple positions on the offensive line. He played at left tackle for LSU but could be a guard or right tackle in the NFL. The author of this NFL.com scouting report argues Collins "could come in and start right away in a power-running game as a guard." CBS Sports ranks Collins as their No. 11 overall prospect. The Eagles have a need at guard at Collins could be a mauler for them."
The Eagles certainly value versatility in their offensive linemen. Considering how much the Eagles are planning to rely on their rushing attack now and moving forward, it's also no surprise to see them interested in run blockers. The Eagles could draft Collins to fill in at guard while grooming him to eventually take over at right tackle.
Here's a full scouting report from NFL.com:
"Strengths - Thick through chest and displays upper-body strength. Has strong hands and will snatch and control less active defenders. He takes defenders for a ride once he's engaged on the move. Loves to mash and intimidate opponents. Mean player. Can center pass rushers and end their attempt in pass pro. Utilizes length in pass protection and is acclimated to a pro-style offense. Able to run-block and pass-set laterally. Well-schooled and technically proficient. If he gets beat on a play, he comes back even harder on the next snap. Finisher. Can come in and play guard or tackle.
Weaknesses - Fails to consistently bring hips and feet with him through contact in the running game, causing him to fall forward and lose balance. Hand usage is a major concern. Hands will start too low in pass pro at times and has to work hard to redirect. Change of direction is slow for a tackle. Relies on lunging rather than foot movement to counter inside moves. Plays high out of stance and loses leverage battle on short-yardage confrontations. Will have to move to right tackle or inside.
Bottom Line - Brawling right tackle or guard prospect in the NFL who has had a level of success in hyper-competitive SEC West. Lacks athleticism to be a consistent left tackle, despite his snaps there in college. Collins plays with a mean streak that is evident in every game, and could come in and start right away in a power-running game as a guard."
Complete list of known Eagles draft visits
OL La'el Collins, LSU
OLB Obum Gwacham, Oregon State
WR Rashad Greene, Florida State
OL Terry Poole, San Diego State
WR Jaelen Strong, Arizona State
LB Benardrick McKinney, Mississippi State