NFL Draft 2019: Philadelphia Eagles full mock draft
By Joe Romano
Round 2 – Pick 57
Miles Sanders, RB, Penn State
When making a mock draft, it is important to understand the totality of the draft, not just a single selection. It prevents pigeon-holing teams into certain positions and prevents reaches that likely won’t happen in the actual draft. For Philadelphia, not owning a third-round choice gives them a 70-pick gap between their second rounder and fourth rounder. This is where they need to jump on a running back.
Another local product that fits is Penn State’s Miles Sanders. Formerly Saquon Barkley’s backup, Sanders proved to be a special prospect in his own right. If not for Barkley, Sanders may be a unanimous first running back taken, that is the type of talent he’s shown. He’s not a perfect prospect and behind Barkley in most categories. What he does offer though is the ability to make people miss, the long speed to hit big plays and the body control to run through contact. Sanders is a impressive runner and really good athlete.
That is not to say he does not have holes. Sanders needs to work on the nuances of the running back position. He’s still quick to bounce things outside, trusting his speed rather than his blockers. He also needs to work on reading and setting up blocks when finding holes inside.
Playing behind an elite offensive line, like that in Philadelphia, would give him a leg up on other rookie backs. Sanders can come in and compete with Corey Clement and Josh Adams for carries right away. As the best athlete and overall player, he can take over early on. His excellent hands will get him on the field in passing downs as well.