The Eagles had plenty of options at the 101st overall pick, the first of the final day of the 2014 NFL Draft.
With the pick, acquired from the Houston Texans in last night's third round, the Eagles addressed the secondary with Florida defensive back Jaylen Watkins.
The 5'11", 198-pound defensive back is the half-brother of fourth overall pick Sammy Watkins. Here's a look at the newest Eagle.
Watkins provides versatility to the Eagles secondary. He's listed as a cornerback, but split time at safety as well.
He's quick and moves well and his size is good for a cornerback, even compared to some that went in the earlier rounds.
What he lacks at times is the tackling skills, especially at the NFL level. The word "grabby" stands out on reports in regards to his tackling and he relies too much on using his shoulders to secure tackles.
Watkins can allow separation for receivers at times, but again, it is his versatility that stands out. This is not a guy that is expected to line up on a top receiver, but could spend a lot of time playing in nickel formations.
In a secondary that needs help in any way they can get it, Watkins is an ungrade and a nice piece for a fourth-round pick.
He does bring a playmaking flare to his game and also has special teams ability. Bottom line: you'll be seeing a lot of Watkins with the Eagles next season and in various roles.
Watkins also projects to line up well in run defense situations while being a player that can also defend short passing routes.
His true fit is in the slot, though, so he fits in well for the Eagles, who needed to make sure they left the Draft with at least one player for the secondary.
Kevin Durso is a contributor for Eagledelphia. Follow him on twitter @KDursoPhilsNet.
