2017 NFL mock draft: Marlon Humphrey to the Philadelphia Eagles

The Philadelphia Eagles go into the 2017 NFL draft needing to land a cornerback. Although players like Patrick Robinson and Jalen Mills are solid, they lack the No. 1 shutdown cornerback. Fortunately the 2017 NFL draft is loaded at the position.

After taking linebacker Reuben Foster in the first round SB Nation NFL writers’ mock draft, Brandon Lee Gowton of Bleeding Green Nation is back to make the pick for the Eagles in the SB Nation NFL writers’ mock draft.

Gowton: Cornerback is the most obvious need for the Eagles. With this pick, Philadelphia potentially gets a long-term solution they’ve sorely lacked for years now.

There’s talk of Humphrey being a potential Eagles target at No. 14 overall. The Alabama cornerback plays with that feisty, physical confidence that defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz loves in his corners.

There’s no question Humphrey has flaws, but he’s only 20 years old. He was a productive player in only two seasons played for the Crimson Tide and he has good size and athleticism. The tools are there for the Eagles to coach him up.

Analysis: This is arguably the best pick of this mock draft thus far because of the value and need. Humphrey is a top five cornerback this year. If the class weren’t so deep he’d be at or near the top in most years. The tools are not only there for the Eagles to coach up. The tools are there for Humphrey to be a star. Humphrey possesses every tool you want in a No. 1 cornerback, he just needs refinement and experience.

Our next pick of the day is coming up at noon ET with the team from Buffalo Rumblings making the pick for the Buffalo Bills.