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Defensive Tackle

  1. Christian Ballard, Iowa
  2. Jerrell Powe, Mississippi
  3. Ian Williams, Notre Dame

Ballard is an explosive and athletic player who can be effective as a defensive tackle or a defensive end. He could immediately make an impact in the Eagles' rotation.

Defensive End

  1. Sam Acho, Texas
  2. Pernell McPhee, Mississippi State
  3. Brandon Bair, Oregon

With Trent Cole and Juqua Parker in the fold but Brandon Graham returning from an ACL injury, the Eagles could be in the market for an edge rusher – and we know they never shy away from taking a defensive lineman. Acho was originally projected to go in the late second or early third round.

Outside Linebacker

  1. Dontay Moch, Nevada
  2. K.J. Wright, Mississippi State
  3. Chris Carter, Fresno State

Inside Linebacker

  1. Greg Jones, Michigan State
  2. Quan Sturdivant, North Carolina
  3. Ross Homan, Ohio State

The Eagles could use at least one or two more linebackers for 2011. Greg Jones and Quan Sturdivant would both be considered a steal at this point in the draft. Carter, meanwhile, could also project as a defensive end in the Eagles' scheme.

Cornerback

  1. Davon House, New Mexico State
  2. Brandon Burton, Utah
  3. Darryl Skrine, Tennessee-Chattanooga

The team allowed 31 passing touchdowns in 2010, the most in the Andy Reid era. They improved their cornerback situation by selecting Curtis Marsh in the third round but new defensive coordinator Juan Castillo could use another young cornerback to help improve the defense.

Safety

  1. Jeron Johnson, Boise State
  2. Marcus Gilchrist, Clemson
  3. Joseph Lefeged, Rutgers

Temple safety Jaiquawn Jarrett, the team's second-round draft pick, gives the Eagles three playmaking safeties under the age of 25: Nate Allen, Kurt Coleman, and Jarrett. But with Quintin Mikell possibly leaving via free agency, the Eagles may need additional help at the defensive "center field" positions.

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