2017 NFL draft positional breakdown: Defensive backs

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We continue our positional breakdown leading up to the 2017 NFL draft with a look at defensive backs. Instead of a top five, we'll highlight players at these positions who fit the Eagles and have a chance to be available when the team picks. 

We've already looked at running backs, linebackers, quarterbacks, offensive linemen, defensive ends and defensive tackles

At No. 14

Marlon Humphrey, Alabama, 6-0, 197 pounds
Opinions are really split on Humphrey. Some see him as one of the top guys in the cornerback class, while others aren't sure his ball skills will improve enough. The one thing that shouldn't be questioned about Humphrey is his physicality. If the Eagles want a corner that will jam at the line and isn't afraid to use his body, it's Humphrey. 

While Humphrey is a skilled tackler from the cornerback position, it's fair to wonder how much the Eagles (or any team) should care about that. The big question about Humphrey is his ability to track balls and his ability to bring them in. That's a big part of being a corner. 

Tre'Davious White, LSU, 5-11, 192 pounds
While Humphrey is the physical corner with less-than-stellar ball skills, White is kind of the opposite. He's an absolute ball-hawk, but can't tackle. Really, though, that might be a more desirable flaw to have for a cornerback. 

At LSU, White wore the No. 18, which is reserved for the player that represents the school best on and off the field. Bennie Logan once wore 18 at LSU. The question with White has centered around his ceiling. He might be ready to step in and play right away, but some question his ability to ever become one of the best in the business. 

Gareon Conley, Ohio State, 6-0, 195 pounds
Playing on the other side of Marshon Lattimore put Conley in the shadows for a while, but he's out now. It's no secret that Conley's a first-round pick and might not even be around when the Eagles pick at 14. He's really risen up the draft boards of analysts and has had a rise like his former teammate Eli Apple, who went 10th overall last year. 

Conley might appeal to the Eagles for a few reasons, including his cover skills and ability to press. He had a good showing at the combine, which simply matched his production all season. Many folks think he has the potential to be great. 

In the middle 

Cameron Sutton, Tennessee, 5-11, 188 pounds
The Eagles look for versatility and Sutton offers that. He's listed by most places as a corner but can play safety and even did so during Senior Bowl week in Mobile, Alabama. The idea of him playing safety is a little odd just because he lacked the ability to jam consistently at the line. Likely a Day 2 pick. 

Corn Elder, Miami, 5-10, 183 pounds
A little undersized but a skilled corner. His best fit at the next level is probably as a slot guy, but that's not a reason to pass on him. With how often teams are out of base packages, a guy like Elder can play a big role at the next level. More likely a Day 3 pick. 

Late-round sleeper(s)

Montae Nicholson, Michigan State, 6-2, 212 pounds
The big safety had a great showing at the combine in March, which definitely turned some heads. He ran a 4.42 and tested well in other areas. A late-round pick who might not be able to step on the field on defense just yet but could be a force on special teams. 

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