It was the first time since 2006 that the Eagles did not move up or down in the first round (No. 14 Brodrick Bunkley). It's also the first time since 2006 that the Eagles used a pick in the first two rounds on an offensive lineman (tackle Winston Justice, second round).
Rick Gosselin, Dallas Morning News"Watkins is the safest pick in the entire draft — the one player you can confidently say will be in the Pro Bowl in 2012. He's the best guard on the board, and some NFL teams were looking at him as both a center and tackle."
Pete Prisco, CBS Sports"One thing about the Eagles, they love taking big people. This is an aggressive player who will fit right into the Eagles' style of play."
Peter King, Sports Illustrated"The good - Danny Watkins is a day-one starter, mature and experienced, and can play either guard and, in a pinch, tackle, where he played last year at Baylor. The bad - He'll be a 27-year-old rookie this fall."
Greg Cosell, NFL Films"Best attributes are strength and physicality. Very good balance and body control with a strong anchor. A workmanlike and effective player. Best transitions to the NFL at OG but could also play RT for a team whose pass game is short to intermediate and play action. Naturally strong and powerful. Strong hands, controlled defenders. Relentless and a little nasty when he engaged. Liked his playing personality."
Adam Caplan, FoxSports.com"The Eagles got their probable starting right guard in Danny Watkins in the first round. The only issue is that he turns 27 this fall, so he'll be around 30 years old when he signs his second NFL contract."
