Justin Gilbert, CB, Oklahoma State (1)
Oct 26, 2013; Ames, IA, USA; Oklahoma State Cowboys cornerback Justin Gilbert (4) returns an interception for a touchdown during the first quarter against the Iowa State Cyclones at Jack Trice Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brace Hemmelgarn-USA TODAY Sports
Scotty Bakalian:
"After Philadelphia went ahead and cut WR DeSean Jackson, it seems as though that everybody has them drafting a wide receiver in the first round. That could definitely be the case here, but since the WR class is deep, they could be inclined to address other areas of need with this pick. One of those is needs is at the cornerback position. It is unlikely that CB Justin Gilbert is still around at this point of the draft, but if he were to slide, the Eagles would absolutely entertain the thought of bringing him in. Gilbert has incredible potential due to a combination of size, speed, and ball skills. He is also an excellent punt returner, which would help this team after the departure of the aforementioned Jackson."
Matt Ward:
"The Eagles are a very intriguing team heading into the 2014 season. With Chip Kelly at the helm, they have taken a largely unconventional approach to things that have seemingly worked out. They are not opposed to bringing in players to compete while cutting or trading away players that are not ideal fits. The other interesting thing about the Eagles is that they don’t have huge glaring holes. That makes them a wild card to predict in this draft. Looking at the best player available, the Eagles need to take cornerback Justin Gilbert. He is thought by some to be the best corner in the draft this year, and he would possibly win a starting job from Day 1 in Philadelphia. They need to cure their leaky secondary, and Gilbert would be a great start in Round 1."