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The Eagles will host UCLA running back Paul Perkins on a pre-draft visit, according to Perkins himself (via SiriusXM NFL Radio). Perkins is one of 30 prospects scheduled to visit the team's facility in Philadelphia leading up to the 2016 NFL Draft. Perkins also said he's scheduled to visit the Dallas Cowboys, so two NFC East could potentially be battling over him.
This isn't the first time the Eagles are showing interest in Perkins. Eagles executive vice president of football operations Howie Roseman personally attended UCLA's pro day.
Perkins, who turns 22 in November, measures in at 5-10, 208 pounds. The UCLA junior finished his college career with 29 touchdowns and 3,488 yards on 621 attempts (5.6 average). He also recorded 80 receptions for three touchdowns and 739 yards (9.2 average).
It's very likely that the Eagles will draft a running back at some point this year. A number of people have linked the Birds to Ezekiel Elliott with the No. 8 pick, but Philadelphia might choose to address the position after the first round.
For what it's worth, CBS Sports projects Perkins to be a third or fourth round pick. One NFL general manager calls him a "poor man's Jamaal Charles" which is fitting since Doug Pederson used to coach Charles in Kansas City. Here's a more detailed scouting report via NFL.com.
"Strengths - One of the top creators in the draft combining elite vision and a wicked jump-cut. Can disappear before tackler's eyes and put them on his highlight reel. Shows no directional tendencies with his cuts and can make defenders miss in tight quarters. Decisive when working between the tackles, but can bounce it when warranted. Flashes sudden, 1-cut ability on stretch plays. Stacks moves on moves. Reliable hands when asked to help in passing game. Willing to stick his nose in against the blitz.
Weaknesses - Smallish frame for the big-boy workload asked of him. Arm tackle attempts cause hiccup in his journey. Runs halted abruptly when tacklers square him up. Could be forced off field in short yardage spots. Missing NFL-caliber force to run through contact and fall forward. Limited to swings, screens and wheels as receiver. Lacked consistent play speed with his wheel routes. Might lack requisite sand in his pants to be counted on for NFL blitz pickup.
Bottom Line - If Perkins had more size and play strength to go with his elusiveness, we would be talking about whether he or Ezekiel Elliott would be the first running back off the board. While Perkins' tape is full of ankle-breaking cuts, his draft value will also be determined by his ability to protect the quarterback and stay on the field in short-yardage spots. If Perkins finds the right scheme and team fits for his talents, he could become a high-end committee back early on."
Complete list of known Eagles draft visits
QB Dak Prescott, Mississippi State
WR Mike Thomas, Southern Mississippi
RB Paul Perkins, UCLA