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Add another name to the list of potential Seahawks targets: Former Eagles defensive lineman Cedric Thornton.
The #Cowboys and #Seahawks are among the teams interested in #Eagles DL Cedric Thornton. His market's starting to heat up.
— Rand Getlin (@Rand_Getlin) March 9, 2016
Thornton, 27, is 6'4, 309 pounds and would likely project as a run-stuffing defensive tackle with the potential for a little bonus as an interior pass rusher. He played in a two-gap 3-4 in Philly, so it's kind of tough to know how that transition would go.
Per Bleeding Green Nation's Brandon Lee Gowton,
The 27-year-old Thornton has been a good starter for the Eagles as a 3-4 defensive end over the past three seasons. The team is moving to a 4-3 defense under Jim Schwartz, however, so he could be a scheme casualty. Even if the scheme isn't an issue, and it might not be since Thornton started his NFL career as a 4-3 defensive tackle, the Eagles already have a lot talent on their young defensive line. Fletcher Cox, who is due a monster deal, and Bennie Logan currently project as the team's starting defensive tackles.
Thornton will likely be able to find more money/playing time some place other than Philadelphia. If that's the case, good for him. He was always a classy guy and he served the Eagles well. The only bad part for Eagles fans is possibly having to see him line up for the Cowboys.
Thornton has been a solid player rather than a flashy one. He has been effective against the run as a two-gapper -- tying up offensive linemen so the Eagles' linebackers could make plays. In Jim Schwartz's 4-3 scheme, Thornton would likely have to return to the defensive tackle spot he played as a rookie in 2012.
Per ESPN's Sheil Kapadia,who covered the Eagles for years,
His strength is as a run defender, and Thornton consistently plays with a high motor. He would likely compete for a starting job on the interior with the Seahawks.
Also, this was an interesting tweet from Steve Palazzolo.
With regard to role, production, and athleticism, there may not be a better comp in the draft than A'Shawn Robinson/Cedric Thornton
— Steve Palazzolo (@PFF_Steve) March 7, 2016
Stand by for more updates.
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