2019 NFL Draft: 5 players Eagles could take in Round 1

ARLINGTON, TX - DECEMBER 09: Philadelphia Eagles Quarterback Carson Wentz (11) looks over the defense during the game between the Philadelphia Eagles and Dallas Cowboys on December 9, 2018 at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, TX. (Photo by Andrew Dieb/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) /

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MIAMI GARDENS, FL – DECEMBER 29: Oklahoma offensive lineman Cody Ford (74) during the first half of the CFP Semifinal at the Orange Bowl between Alabama Crimson Tide and the Oklahoma Sooners on December 29, 2018, at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, FL. (Photo by Roy K. Miller/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) /

1. Cody Ford

The Eagles need to do a better job of protecting Wentz in the future. Part of that means educating the quarterback on when to and when not to run. The other part of that equation means Philadelphia absolutely has to upgrade their options on the offensive line.

Scouts aren’t sure whether Ford will end up at guard or tackle in the long-term, but that versatility should make him a more attractive prospect for Pederson and his coaching staff. They don’t need a right tackle to put Lane Johnson on the bench. They do, however, need a guy who can plug several potential holes on the line.

In terms of playing style, Ford is a perfect fit for the way the Eagles want their offensive lineman to operate. He’s flat-out nasty when he’s given the freedom to fire off the ball and attack the defensive lineman across from him. He’s not quite as accomplished as a pass blocker, but that’s something that can be improved with better coaching at the next level.

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Ford is a prospect who really lines up as a guy who can give the Eagles terrific value at No. 25 and fill a position of need. That’s a quality recipe for draft success. Look for Philadelphia to give a long, hard look if he’s still available when they go on the clock.

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