Report: Eagles “exploring a move into the top 10”

The Philadelphia Eagles are “exploring a move into the top 10” picks in the 2021 NFL Draft, according to The Athletic’s Ben Standig.

This buzz comes on the heels of ESPN’s Tim McManus writing that “it feels like there’s another shoe yet to drop” while discussing the Eagles potentially moving up from No. 12.

It feels kind of silly to hear about the Eagles moving back up after previously moving down from No. 6. But it’s hardly implausible. We all know Howie Roseman loves to trade and he has ample ammunition to work with. The Eagles own the most picks in this year’s draft:

1 (12)
2 (37)
3 (70)
3 (84)
4 (123)
5 (150)
6 (188)
6 (222)
6 (223)
7 (232)
7 (237)

The Eagles could feasibly be targeting a move to No. 8 or No. 9 to get ahead of two NFC East rivals — the Dallas Cowboys and New York Giants — currently picking directly ahead of them.

As for what such a move would cost, it depends. The market for No. 8 could be competitive depending on which quarterback(s) are still on the board. Teams picking in the teens, like the New England Patriots and the Washington Football Team, could try to get to that spot to get ahead of the Denver Broncos. Perhaps that’s exactly what happens and then the Broncos, losing out on their preferred quarterback, then look to move back. Just spitballing here.

The Rich Hill draft pick trade value chart suggests the jump from No. 12 to No. 9 is worth about 40 points, which is the equivalent of a late third-round pick (No. 95). So, maybe the Eagles can use one of their two thirds to move up?

It remains to be seen who exactly the Eagles would be moving up for. The Cowboys are a big threat to take a cornerback so one could guess Philly wants their pick of Patrick Surtain II or Jaycee Horn. It’s also possible they want to ensure getting one of DeVonta Smith or Jaylen Waddle. Or they could do what they always do and just draft a lineman.

Generally speaking, the Eagles shouldn’t be looking to consolidate too many of their picks. Their roster desperately needs an infusion of young talent and they should try to take as many throws at the dartboard as they possibly can. But if there’s someone they absolutely love and they can move up a few spots to get them at a reasonable cost, the deal could be worth it.

What say you?