The Philadelphia Eagles have started their offseason with more cuts than signings. The Eagles first day of free agency was highlighted by the release of cornerback Nnamdi Asomugha and the signing of five non-marquee players. Chip Kelly has started placing his mark on a team that was overpaid and overhyped in 2012. Now as free agency is in full swing and the NFL draft is right around the corner, the Eagles have many holes to fill on both sides of the ball. With the cutting of Asomugha, Alabama cornerback Dee Milliner now appears to be a lock to be drafted first-round by the Eagles.
The releasing of Asomugha leaves Philly with $44 million of salary cap space. They did not pursue any big name players on the first day of free agency and are not rumored to be, instead signing several low risk players and setting their focuses on the draft. The Eagles struggled heavily on defense last season, making it absolutely necessary that they upgrade a few positions. Milliner comes out of Alabama has the most highly scouted cornerback in the draft.
His size and speed make him extremely favorable in the eyes of teams. Milliner impressed at the combine. He ran in the 4.3s in the 40-yard dash, must fast than originally expected of him. He proved mobile in the cone drills and his size allows him to shut big receivers down.
Draft experts have placed Milliner as the No.1 overall player in this year's draft; however Kansas City has the top pick and might not look to draft a cornerback. This leaves the Eagles to be able to draft him at No.4 overall. Some have speculated the Eagles will draft defensive end Dion Jordan fourth because he comes out of Oregon. Kelly is familiar with Jordan, having coached him. Jordan would fit his style of play with his speed and size. It is likely that Jordan could linger around if not taken by the Eagles right away and the team could grab him with a later pick.
Milliner will be recovering from shoulder surgery by the time NFL training camps open up. It was reported he was suffering from a torn labrum in his right shoulder, but is expected to be fully healed by the time the season starts. The release of Asomguha changes the priorities for the Eagles. They need a cornerback more than ever now and Milliner will have the ability to step in and be a starter immediately.