Eagles’ Land Alabama WR Jaylen Waddle in Mel Kiper’s NFL Mock Draft

On Tuesday ESPN’s Mel Kiper, released his first mock draft of 2021, with the Eagles selecting Alabama wide receiver Jaylen Waddle.

The Eagles had a disastrous 4-11-1 season, with quarterback Carson Wentz regressing and getting benched for rookie second-rounder Jalen Hurts. And yes, Wentz was not very good, but his receivers didn't exactly give him much help. The Eagles got only 20 total catches from veterans Alshon Jeffery and DeSean Jackson due to injuries, and 2019 second-round pick J.J. Arcega-Whiteside barely got on the field. So even though Philadelphia drafted Jalen Reagor in Round 1 a year ago, I still see this as a hole in the offense. Waddle, one of the fastest prospects in this draft, could be the go-to target in new coach Nick Sirianni's offense. He was one of college football's most electric receivers over the past three seasons, even if he was overshadowed at times by teammates Henry Ruggs III, Jerry Jeudy and DeVonta Smith. His ceiling at the next level is as a No. 1 pass-catcher.

Waddle was limited to just six games in 2020 due to an ankle injury, but is considered a big-play threat with great ability after the catch. In three season, the 5-foot-10, 182 pound speedster caught 106 passes for 1,999 yards and 17 touchdowns.

Waddle will likely be a slot receiver at the NFL level.

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Looking ahead to next season, the Eagles could have a crowded, inexperienced and uncertain wide receiver room.

The room includes last years first-round pick Jalen Reagor, 2019 second-round pick J.J. Arcega-Whiteside, Travis Fulgham, and 2020 draft picks John Hightower and Quez Watkins. Veteran DeSean Jackson is still under contract for another season, but a post June 1 release is possible.