With the No. 240 pick in the 2016 NFL Draft, the Philadelphia Eagles select ... Florida defensive end Alex McCalister.
McCalister is one of the 30 prospects the Eagles hosted on pre-draft visits. Here's what we wrote at the time.
"McCalister is big and long. He measures in at 6-6, 239 pounds with 36" arms. In 22 games played for the Gators, McCalister racked up 49 tackles (17.5 for loss), 12.5 sacks, and two forced fumbles. There are some red flags with McCalister. He was suspended for Florida's season opener in 2015 before later being dismissed entirely from the football program late last year. McCalister also missed a few games in his final season with the Gators due to a foot injury At only 239 pounds he'd need to add some weight in order to play as a defensive end in Philadelphia's 4-3 scheme."
The Eagles already three players at defensive end who are being paid like starters: Brandon Graham, Vinny Curry, and Connor Barwin. McCalister will have to compete for a depth job. Perhaps he can contribute as a situational pass rusher in Jim Schwartz's wide-nine defense.
Here's a scouting report via NFL.com.
Strengths - Looks like a bigger version of Leonard Floyd. Has rare length and range to defend both the quarterback and running back against zone read. Ridiculous ground coverage over first three steps. Able to drop, dip and accelerate around the edge like it's an embankment. Features upfield burst and springy hips that are waiting to be unlocked and unleashed. Will flash a "whoa!" spin move that he's still learning to harness. Shows ability to long-arm tackles back into the pocket.
Weaknesses - Was dismissed from the team late in the year. Rushes with no discernible plan or workable counter moves. Can't hold his water versus the run. Instincts are lacking. Doesn't use long levers as effectively as he could. Frame nowhere near thick enough. Has to work overtime to try and keep weight on. Suffered a foot injury in November of this season.
Bottom Line - Despite playing in less than 40 percent of the defensive snaps for the Gators over the past two seasons, managed to notch 12.5 sacks. His character must be questioned and he doesn't possess an NFL-ready frame or instincts. McCalister is a project in need of muscle and coaching, but his traits as a rusher are exciting if he can build upon them.
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Eagles remaining needs
Wide receiver
Eagles remaining draft picks
1st (2) - Carson Wentz, QB, North Dakota State
3rd (79) - Isaac Seumalo, OL, Oregon State
5th (153) - Wendell Smallwood, RB, West Virginia
5th (164) - Halapoulivaati Vaitai, OL, TCU
6th (196) - Blake Countess, DB, Auburn
7th (233) - Jalen Mills, S, LSU
7th (240) - Alex McCalister, DE, Florida
7th (251) -
Click here for the entire 2016 NFL Draft order.
2016 NFL Draft schedule
Saturday, April 30 - 12 PM EST (Rounds 4-6 - 5 Minutes Per Pick, Round 7 - 4 Minutes Per Pick)
TV schedule: NFL Network and ESPN.