Some Drafts Are Not Great Payoffs for Your Franchise. Others, Define It.
Many say that it can be years before the true results of a draft unfold. Others say that you know almost instantaneously. In 1944 — the Philadelphia-based draft was one of the finest ever for the franchise. It had Eagles written all over it. Bert Bell — once the owner of the Eagles —was would become the second NFL Commissioner and the 1944 NFL Draft was at the Warwick Hotel in Philadelphia. In the 5th round — the Eagles would make their selection of a championship running back.
Known as the “1943 Preferred Negotiations List,” the draft took into account and in order to assist the Eagles and Steelers with the first year of them separating as the 1943 Steagles — Philadelphia would secure picks at 20, 5, and 37. Pittsburgh would select picks 31, 10, 15 and 41.
The draft wasn’t broadcast on TV — as America was in the midst of World War II. When they selected Steve Van Buren out of LSU — it would turn out to be one of the most important picks in Franchise history. One selection earlier — the Detroit Lions would select Otto Graham.
In the final edition of the Carson Wentz transaction this year — after already having drafted rookie-of-the-year finalist Quinyon Mitchell from Toledo — the Eagles would trade two 2024 second round picks and a fifth round pick. They would use one of the three picks that they got back from the Washington Commanders including the 40th pick overall to draft — you guessed it — Cooper DeJean.
The Eagles were the only team in NFL history to start two rookie defensive backs in the Conference Championship Game. It’s also the first time in franchise history that the Eagles have two rookie defensive backs nominated for the prestigious Rookie of the Year — presented by the Associated Press.
The NFL Draft years of 1944 and 2024 made have helped contribute significantly to additional hardware in Philly at the Novacare Complex.
The 2025 Draft offers the same opportunity for these Eagles.
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