Many draft experts figured that the Eagles would use an early-round pick this year on the cornerback position. Nine picks were used on the defense and only one - fourth-round pick Trevard Lindley - turned out to be a corner.

The Eagles went into the post-draft mini-camp with annual Pro Bowl selection Asante Samuel nestled at home on the left side. During group installation, Ellis Hobbs was the first-team right cornerback. In team drills, Joselio Hanson was the first-team right cornerback.

Hobbs is the front-runner to take over the spot that Sheldon Brown held since 2004. And with his success during his tenure in New England prior to joining the Eagles last season, general manager Howie Roseman feels good with Hobbs in there.

"We have some guys who are going to have an opportunity. Ellis Hobbs and Asante Samuel were starters on (an undefeated) team," Roseman said. "Ellis is feeling great, looks great."

Hobbs suffered a neck injury in the Nov. 8 loss to Dallas that required season-ending surgery. That is why he didn't take part in the team drills this past weekend. He told our own Bob Kent this past weekend that he feels "blessed to have a job" and is looking to a fresh start.

Roseman explained that during the 2009 NFL Draft, the Eagles had their eye on Hobbs. Entering the last year of his rookie deal with New England, the Eagles pried Hobbs away for a pair of fifth-round draft picks.

The Eagles, per Roseman, also believe that helping the quality depth at cornerback will be the improved pass rush. The Eagles drafted three defensive ends, including Brandon Graham, whom the Eagles traded up for in the first round. And from a veteran perspective, the Eagles traded for Seattle's Darryl Tapp this off-season.

"The best thing for these corners is pass rush and we believe we've helped the pass rush," Roseman said.

-- Posted by Chris McPherson, 4:00 p.m., May 4