Could the Eagles Take CJ Mosley at 22?

Everyone seems to think it's a foregone conclusion that the Eagles will take a wide receiver with the 22nd pick in this weeks NFL draft.

Pundits continue to mock leading up to the draft, projecting names like Kelvin Benjamin, Odell Beckham Jr., Marquise Lee and Brandon Cooks to be called, just to name a few.  Eagles Gm Howie Roseman has gone on the record discussing the depth in this year's wide-out core.

And that's why I think he will take a pass on receiver if this guy is on-the-board - Alabame inside linebacker CJ Mosley.

Its a name you probably haven't heard to much about, but you will if he is wearing a midnight green jersey.  Ranked as the top inside backer by many draft experts, Mosley is an every down linebacker, who has the great size (6-2, 232) that Chip Kelly likes to gush about.

So I know what your thinking, the Eagles have DeMeco Ryans and Mychal Kendricks, two solid starters and other warts on the defense to fix now.

Simply put - Mosley might just be to good to pass up.

His talent is outstanding, couple with Ryans contract situation and we have the makings of another DeSean Jackson-esque contract situation.  Ryans, 30, is currently slated to earn a non-guaranteed $6.9 million in salary and bonuses next season - he could be a cap casualty next year.

Which means Mosley can play the strong side in 2014 and slide nicely into the inside of the Eagles 3-4 scheme in 2015.

His range and most importantly his versatility make him most attractive.  Mosley can be that three-down linebacker that can play inside and outside, and drop in coverage. another great thing he can list on his resume, he's a four-year starter for Nick Saban, is a three-down stud of an inside linebacker that will handle all duties asked of him.

Former NFL general manager Charley Casserly said Friday on NFL Network's "NFL AM" described Mosley is a "more strong, more physical, better athlete" than Luke Kuechly and a "pro-bowl player."

So Eagles fans, would you be happy to hear Mosley's name called at 22?  I know I would be - if they looked at some of these guys in rounds 2-4.

(You can listen to first and second round coverage of the NFl draft, Thursday May 8 and Friday May 9 on 97. 3 ESPN)