CFP National Championship

The Eagles are taking a look at Alabama linebacker Reuben Foster. (Kevin C. Cox | Getty Images)

The Eagles are continuing to do their homework on Alabama linebacker Reuben Foster and recently sent a member of the organization to meet with him, according to a person familiar with the situation who requested anonymity.

In addition to meeting with Foster, the Eagles also brought him in for a visit to the NovaCare Complex back in March.

Foster is currently projected to go in the first round of the draft, and whether or not he will be on the board when the Eagles pick at No. 14 overall is unclear.

On talent alone, Foster, 6-foot-0, 229 pounds, is one of the top players in the draft regardless of position. Foster appeared in 39 games for Alabama during his three-year career there, totaling 211 tackles, 23 of which went for a loss, and seven sacks.

He is widely considered the top linebacker in this year's draft class, and one of the best defensive players overall.

Off-the-field issues, however, have his draft stock in question. In addition to dealing with a shoulder injury, it was recently revealed that a sample drug test he took at the NFL Combine came back as diluted.

He was also involved in an incident at the NFL Combine that resulted in him being sent home early.

Despite the questions off the field, however, it is still very possible that Foster is not on the board when the Eagles go on the clock in the first round.

The Eagles don't appear to have a need at linebacker, since middle linebacker Jordan Hicks is coming off of a strong season and is entering just his third season. It is possible, however, the Eagles either view Foster as an outside linebacker, or they are comfortable moving Hicks to the outside.

Here is more information on Foster, via CBS Sports:

STRENGTHS: At a rock solid 6-1, 240 pounds with broad shoulders, a trim middle and well-built limbs, Foster offers prototypical size for an inside linebacker role. His greatest attribute, however, is his pure explosiveness. Whether it be his outstanding sideline-to-sideline speed or the impact he generates with his collisions, Foster is a heat-seeking missile hell-bent on destruction. Just as aggressive as he is athletic, Foster attacks would-be blockers in the running game, jolting opponents with a powerful punch that can leave them staggering. When blockers are successful in latching onto him, Foster shows impressive leg drive and balance to anchor, creating a pile runners have to avoid and easy tackle opportunities for teammates.

WEAKNESSES: At times, Foster appears too athletic and aggressive for his own good. His sharp pursuit angles leave little room for error and, at times, he can get a little too far over his skis, flailing his arms to keep his balance while throttling down to change direction. Savvy quarterbacks can manipulate Foster with their eyes and he'll lose track of receivers around him, closing the gap between them only after the ball is being thrown. While this can result in some big collisions (and passes broken up), Foster can improve his coverage with greater route awareness and patience. To this point, Foster's calling card has been his explosive hits, but he has to be careful about lowering his head when tackling.

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Eliot Shorr-Parks may be reached at eshorrpa@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @EliotShorrParks. Find NJ.com Eagles on Facebook.