The Eagles sent a ransom of picks to the Browns to acquire the No. 2 overall pick, but they’ve landed the quarterback they wanted. Philadelphia has selected North Dakota State quarterback Carson Wentz, locking in its signal-caller of the future.
The 23-year-old Wentz becomes the first FCS quarterback to be drafted in the first round since the Ravens picked Joe Flacco in 2008. But Wentz has the size (6’6″, 235 pounds), arm strength, and numbers to back up the selection. In his two seasons as NDSU’s starter, Wentz threw for more than 4,700 yards and 42 touchdowns against only 14 interceptions, while helping the Bison win two FCS titles.
Wentz and Cal’s Jared Goff were considered the top two quarterbacks available in this year’s class, and while Goff is thought to be bit more polished, Wentz’s upside might be unmatched. PFR’s Rob DiRe ranked Wentz as the No. 2 QB on the board, noting that Wentz’s size and mobility wowed scouts, he may need some time to develop.
With the Eagles, Wentz should be in a position to get that developmental time. Philadelphia re-signed Sam Bradford to a two-year deal with an eye towards making him a bridge quarterback, but Bradford, upset by the Eagles’ plans to draft Wentz, has now requested a trade. Even if Bradford is shipped out, Philadelphia still has the option of starting experienced backup Chase Daniel until Wentz is deemed pro-ready.
The Eagles will also receive a 2017 fourth-round pick from the Browns, while Cleveland acquired a bevy of compensation. The Browns will receive the No. 8 pick, a 2016 third-round pick, and a 2016 fourth-round pick, a 2017 first-round pick, and a 2018 second-round pick.
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