Howie Roseman has developed a strong connection with the University of Georgia in the last two NFL Drafts, and it seems likely to continue for the Philadelphia Eagles this year.
South Philadelphia has basically turned into a place with a strong influence from Georgia after the Eagles selected Jordan Davis, Nakobe Dean, and, Nolan Smith, and Kelee Ringo Jalen Carter
in the 2022 and 2023 draft classes.
But, the connection between Athens and Philadelphia could continue in the 2024 NFL Draft, because the Eagles really need to plan for the future when it comes to cornerback, and Georgia cornerback Kamari Lassiter is gaining attention from NFL teams.
“The Eagles are also a team to watch at No. 22,” Lauren Gray reports for PFF. “Darius Slay (66.0) and James Bradberry (54.4) are currently playing on the outside, while C.J. Gardner-Johnson will probably play in the slot.
“With Slay and Bradberry getting older and not performing as well, Philadelphia needs a trustworthy player to back them up. The Eagles have chosen five Bulldogs in the last two seasons, and Lassiter could be the next one. They might also prioritize the offensive line in the first round after Jason Kelce‘s (82.7) retirement.”
The Eagles really need help something at cornerback. Especially after Bradberry struggled in coverage and missed tackles during the end of the 2023 season.
But getting rid of Bradberry would result in a $15.11 million dead-money charge against the cap this season and cost the Eagles $10.81 million in cap space.
Picking Lassiter could be a way for the Eagles to have him gradually take on a starting role later in the 2024 season, or maybe develop enough to be the Week 1 starter in 2025.
Kwami Lassiter NFL Draft Scouting Report
Due to the Eagles’ urgent need to add reliable playmakers in the secondary, and their habit of choosing players from head coach Kirby Smart’s program, Lassiter could be a player to keep an eye on for Philadelphia.
Last season, Lassiter made 37 total tackles with half a sack and eight pass breakups, at 6 feet and 180 pounds.
“Lassiter did not give up a touchdown in two of his three seasons at Georgia,” Gray notes for PFF. “And had a 25.0% first down-plus-touchdown rate (sixth best). There are still uncertainties about his speed, athleticism, and lack of ball production.
“He ran the 40-yard dash in 4.65 seconds at his pro day and is viewed as a good, but not exceptional, athlete. Lassiter only got one interception in his college career (in 2021) and had six forced incompletions before 2023.”
NFL Media’s Lance Zierlein suggests that Lassiter could benefit from a situation where he doesn’t need to start right away and be the main player in the secondary.
“Energetic but slim,” Zierlein mentions, comparing Lassiter to fellow former Bulldog, DeAndre Baker. “With the mindset to handle the highs and lows that come with the position. Lassiter has the athleticism and determination to play press-man coverage and all forms of zone.
His instincts and ability to recognize plays are improving, which helps him anticipate routes and contest catches, but he hasn’t shown himself to be a cornerback who aggressively goes for the football and shifts the field.”
Eagles are focusing on the cornerback position
Despite a tough season for the Eagles’ defensive back group, Philadelphia is re-signing Avonte Maddox, Darius Slay, and Bradberry.
But because of Bradberry’s contract situation and his performance decline in 2023, Roseman and the Eagles might want to strengthen their cornerback depth in the upcoming draft.
“It’s clear to everyone, including [Bradberry], that JB didn’t meet expectations this year, Roseman told reporters at the NFL Annual Meeting. “He understands that and is motivated to prove himself as the player he was in 2022.”
If Bradberry doesn’t improve and the Eagles don’t have a young player ready to take his place, it could be another challenging season for the criticized secondary.
