/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/53714031/usa_today_9804961.0.jpg)
The Eagles hosted Alabama linebacker Reuben Foster on an official pre-draft visit in Philadelphia, according to a report from Eliot Shorr-Parks of NJ.com. Foster is one of 30 prospects who to visit the Eagles leading up to the 2017 NFL Draft.
Foster isn’t the only Crimson Tide defender to visit the Eagles. Alabama’s Ryan Anderson also visited Philadelphia recently. Unlike Anderson, however, Foster is projected to be a high first-round pick. He’s viewed as the top linebacker in this draft.
Foster turns 23 in April and measures in at 6-0, 229 pounds. In three years with Alabama, Foster recorded 211 tackles (23 for loss), seven sacks, and nine passes defensed.
Teams will have questions for Foster after the linebacker was sent home early from the 2017 NFL Combine after a “heated exchange” with a hospital worker. That incident could explain why the Eagles want to have him in for a visit and better get to know him.
The Eagles don’t have a pressing need at middle linebacker with Jordan Hicks in the fold, but Foster could test their “draft the best player available” strategy if he’s there at pick at No. 14.
BGN’s draft writer Ben Natan has more on Foster.
In the Crimson Tide’s dismantling of the hapless Florida defense, no defender stood out like Reuben Foster. Not only was his range and recognition on display defending the run and pass, but his incredible speed made him a destructive blitzer. Foster is arguably the most complete player in the 2017 NFL draft and his skill set was on full display against Florida.
Watch Foster’s individual game film via Draft Breakdown. Check out his highlights below (warning: music NSFW).
Reuben Foster spider graph (no on-field drills data since he was sent home early):
Complete list of known Philadelphia Eagles draft visits
Alabama CB Marlon Humphrey - [Click here]
Washington WR John Ross - [Click here]
Alabama LB Ryan Anderson - [Click here]
Alabama LB Reuben Foster