The Philadelphia Eagles will enter the 2023 NFL Draft with two first-round picks. It’s two selections with added importance after quarterback Jalen Hurts signed his contract extension, making him one of the highest-paid NFL players. As draft night approaches, it’s becoming increasingly clear what approach the Eagles might take on draft night.
Philadelphia’s draft history under general manager Howie Roseman demonstrates the value the front office puts on winning in the trenches. The Eagles are one of the highest-spending teams on the offensive line and they’ve invested equal draft capital and money into the defensive line.
Holding the 10th overall pick, Philadelphia will have several options to strengthen its roster on either side of the ball. With four quarterbacks projected to be taken within the first eight picks, several top talents at position of need will be on the board when Philadelphia is on the clock.
While trading up to draft defensive tackle Jalen Carter or moving down to build up additional draft capital are viable options, many around the league seem to believe they know who the Eagles will draft with at No. 10 overall.
According to Brandon Lee Gowton of Bleeding Green Nation, NFL executives believe edge rusher Lukas Van Ness won’t make it past the Eagles with the 10th pick.
- Lukas Van Ness stats (career): 19 tackles for loss, 13 sacks in 26 games
Van Ness, standing at 6-foot-5, is one of the top edge rushers in the 2023 NFL Draft. While he didn’t deliver outstanding production as a redshirt sophomore at Iowa, he was one of the most impactful defenders on a stout Hawkeyes’ defense.
Turning 22 in July, Van Ness is well-built for a player of his size and offers above-average athleticism along with excellent power. NFL coaches will need to work with him on developing a greater array of pass-rush moves, but his positional versatility and bull rush could help him see the field early in his career.
If the Eagles draft Van Ness, he’ll likely serve as a situational pass rusher alongside Derek Barnett next season. With Brandon Graham nearing the end of his career and Josh Sweat eligible for free agency in 2025, Van Ness could be a long-term pick for Philadelphia’s defense.
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