The Philadelphia Eagles did not use a early-round pick in the 2010 NFL Draft on an NFL-ready starting cornerback. Jeff McLane of the Philadelphia Inquirer reports the Eagles instead are looking to Ellis Hobbs to be the replacement for Sheldon Brown, who was traded to the Cleveland Browns in April.

Hobbs, who defensive coordinator Sean McDermott says is "still learning the intricacies" of the defense, is on the mend after undergoing anterior cervical decompression surgery, as well as fusion on a herniated disk. Hobbs is expected to be ready at some point during training camp.

When Hobbs does return, he'll face competition from veteran Joselio Hanson and 2009 fifth-round pick Macho Harris, who'll get an early chance to work opposite Asante Samuel with the first-team defense while Hobbs works his way back onto the field.

Hanson (5-9, 185) has started 9 of his 60 games with the Eagles over the last four seasons, totaling 173 tackles, 2.5 quarterback sacks, 3 interceptions and 30 passes defensed. The 5-11, 198-pound Harris started 8 of 15 games, and made 41 tackles with a pair of pass break-ups, at the free safety position.

Fourth-round cornerback Trevard Lindley is also in the mix at cornerback, as well.