2018 NFL Mock Draft: Who will Eagles take with first-round pick?

The Eagles have plenty to worry about before the 2018 NFL Draft.

They have a battle for the top seed in the NFC to worry about. They have a playoff game to worry about. Their franchise player is set to have season-ending surgery.

Soon, however, the team will need to address the needs on this team for next season -- and in his latest NFL Mock Draft for ESPN, Todd McShay has them addressing a pretty big one.

In his latest 2018 NFL Mock Draft for ESPN, McShay has the Eagles picking Alabama linebacker Rashaan Evans with the 32nd overall pick.

Why Evans?

The Eagles have one of the most complete rosters in the NFL, though offensive tackle could be an issue if 35-year-old Jason Peters isn't the same coming back from his knee injury. Another versatile linebacker such as Evans, who has had a strong senior campaign, is a good pick to help bolster an elite defense.

When will Carson Wentz play again for the Eagles?

The Eagles' need at linebacker became much more important after starting linebacker Jordan Hicks suffered a season-ending Achilles injury earlier this year. Although Hicks is one of the best young linebackers in the NFL when healthy, he has had trouble staying on the field, and it is unknown what kind of player he will be when he returns.

In addition to Hicks, it is possible that both Nigel Bradham and Mychal Kendricks are gone next season, leaving the Eagles in desperate need of talent at the linebacker position.

Here is a scouting report on Evans, via WithTheFirstPick.com:

He is a big hitter who approaches his target under control. Evans isn't someone who will surrender yards after contact nor miss many tackles. His overall value is increased thanks to his ability to hold up in coverage. Evans drops in coverage with great balance, keeps his head on a swivel and quickly closes on the ball. He also has the speed to stick with tight ends, running backs and some receivers. Evans is a real asset against the pass which makes him an extremely valuable piece in today's NFL. Alabama will allow him to show off his pass rush ability from time to time. He shows the burst and balance to gain the edge and get after the quarterback.

Eliot Shorr-Parks may be reached at eshorrpa@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @EliotShorrParks. Find NJ.com Eagles on Facebook.

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