Andre Dillard is a left tackle and a first round pick who won’t have the pressure of performing immediately because he has an all-time great playing in front of him. The great thing about having Jason Peters for a teammate is that you don’t have to rush as a prospect and all of the immense wisdom that you can receive from the future Hall of Famer.
During the Eagles practice sessions last week, the Philadelphia media had the opportunity to quiz offensive line coach Jeff Stoutland, picking his brain on everything blocking related.
Stoutland didn’t hold back in critiquing Dillard’s play this spring, telling the Philly Voice that the former Washington State Cougar star is getting better on a daily basis.
Asked what sold him on Dillard, Stoutland referred to his love of the game.
“I just liked the love of football, the importance of it to him. Being prepared. I like the fact that he’s looking for someone who is going to challenge him.
I also thought it was important for him to get to know who I am if this thing worked out. The compatibility between the player and the coach (is important), and I also just felt he was the perfect fit.”
When asked what he’s seen from Dillard as a whole this spring, Stoutland again referred to his consistent improvement on a daily basis.
“Consistent improvement. He improves every day. He’s exactly what he was when we evaluated him. He’s just smooth, a great athlete.
Stoutland believes Dillard can improve immensely as a run blocker, and with a red-shirt season coming barring serious injury or Peters needing relief, the Eagles future at left tackle who get all the seasoning he needs before taking over in 2020.
