Do the Philadelphia Eagles Overpay for Franchise-QB Potential in the 2016 NFL Draft?

Introduction
During the 2016 NFL Draft, the Philadelphia Eagles made significant moves to improve their draft position, rising from 8th to 2nd overall. This article explores whether the Eagles overpaid in terms of draft picks for the potential to secure a franchise quarterback. Additionally, it delves into the challenges and potential outcomes of such a strategic decision.

Did the Eagles Overpay?

The Eagles acquired the 2nd overall pick by trading away valuable assets, including:

2016 1st round pick 2016 3rd round pick 2016 4th round pick 2017 1st round pick 2018 2nd round pick

These picks were obtained through a series of trades involving other teams, indicating that the Eagles' strategy involved trading future potential for immediate impact. The trade deal, while complex, was not without its challenges, as the Eagles' own draft picks were not directly involved.

Assessing the Value of the Picks

The value of the trades can be gauged by the picks' relative positions and potential outcomes. The 2nd overall pick was slightly less valuable than the 1st overall pick received by the Los Angeles Rams in the Moreno trade, but it still represented significant draft capital. The draft picks acquired were spread out over two years, which can soften the impact of the trade. However, the strategy of mortgaging the future to secure a potential franchise quarterback is not without risks.

Strategic Context

The Philadelphia Eagles faced a unique challenge as they had a strong interest in securing a franchise quarterback. Unlike in previous years, there were no clear and obvious NFL-ready quarterbacks available in the draft. Notable franchise quarterbacks like RG3 and Andrew Luck had already left the league, leaving the 2016 class with no standout prospects. Projections suggested that the Eagles could have drafted a quarterback in the 8th pick, making the trade decision more complex.

The Eagles ended up with 7 picks for the 2016 draft, but most of these were in the later rounds, which are less ideal for immediately rebuilding talent. This situation underscores the balance between long-term potential and short-term needs in draft strategy.

Post-Trade Analysis and Risk Assessment

It remains to be seen whether the vigilante picks will yield the desired outcomes. The strategic decision to mortgage the future for a potential franchise quarterback carries inherent risks, especially without a surrounding roster to support such a talent. Historical data suggests that blockbuster trades, while sometimes successful, often fall flat, particularly when they jeopardize future prospects.

Specifically, the Rams, who traded their own picks in the RG3 deal, have seen mixed success. While the Rams have experienced moderate success in the past few seasons, the Redskins, who also made significant trades, faced similar challenges. The Eagles now share a similar position, with the potential for both success and failure depending on how the trade impacts the team's future.

Conclusion

The Philadelphia Eagles' decision to trade for the 2nd overall pick in the 2016 NFL Draft reflects a strategic gambit to secure a potential franchise quarterback. While the trade involved significant draft capital, the potential benefits warrant the risk. However, the success of this strategy hinges on the eventual performance of the drafted quarterback and the surrounding talent. Only time will tell whether this bold move will pay off for the Eagles.