While that may seem like a high standard with which to judge the four, all-pro defensive tackles generally have been early-round picks. In the last decade, 15 of the 24 defensive tackles - including 3-4 nose tackles - chosen by the AP were former first-rounders. That number jumps to 18 if you add second-round selections.
Because of their history, the Eagles' taking a defensive tackle in the first round in Thursday's NFL draft would not come as a surprise. And there is, of course, their need at the position with Patterson and Bunkley aging and Laws underachieving.
Reid and company have surely noted the value of getting a defensive tackle early in the draft as opposed to in the middle rounds. In all, the Eagles have used eights picks in 12 years on defensive tackles. Aside from the three first-rounders and Laws, one was chosen in the sixth round and three in the seventh round.
"At a particular position, if you're taking a guy second or third or fourth, he's not going to be as good [as a first-rounder]. There's no question about it," Eagles general manager Howie Roseman said. "That's why you're taking him in the third or fourth round. But maybe the [difference in the] talent level isn't as big as the talent level at a different position."
While none of the Eagles' late-round gambles have panned out, the early choices have been mostly consistent performers. Patterson was chosen 15 picks after Travis Johnson and six picks ahead of Shaun Cody in 2005. Neither has come close to matching the dependable Patterson. Bunkley was taken 12 picks ahead of bust John McCargo a year later.
Patterson and Bunkley have anchored the middle of the line much of the last four seasons. But both will turn 28 this year, and Bunkley injured his shoulder early last season and lost his spot to Antonio Dixon.
