The Philadelphia Eagles are preparing for the 2026 NFL Draft, where they hold the No. 23 overall pick. Following a disappointing end to their Super Bowl title defense, the team is evaluating potential selections that could bolster their roster. While some positions remain uncertain, the Eagles aim to enhance their offensive line, tight end group, or secondary.
Historically, the Eagles have been cautious about selecting defensive backs in the early rounds, but they made a significant move in 2024 by choosing Quinyon Mitchell, a defensive back from Toledo, who later earned first-team NFL All-Pro honors. As they look toward the upcoming draft, several names have emerged as potential candidates for their first-round pick.
Potential Draft Targets for the Eagles
One player generating buzz is Kadyn Proctor, an offensive tackle from Alabama. Standing at 6-foot-7 and weighing 366 pounds, Proctor is known for his athleticism. Despite some inconsistent performances in 2025, his striking power and aggressive run-blocking make him a compelling option. Although his blocking technique needs refinement, pairing him with offensive line coach Jeff Stoutland could help elevate his game, allowing him to contribute at either guard or tackle.
Another intriguing prospect is Kenyon Sadiq, a tight end from Oregon. At 6-foot-3 and 245 pounds, Sadiq has established himself as a dynamic receiving threat, finishing the season with a team-high eight receiving touchdowns. While he excels in the red zone and can navigate contested catches, he will need to improve his route-running and eliminate drops. The Eagles have not selected a tight end in the first round since Keith Jackson in 1988, making Sadiq a notable consideration.
The Eagles may also look to bolster their offensive line with Caleb Lomu from Utah. The 6-foot-6, 308-pound tackle has demonstrated impressive pass-blocking skills, allowing only eight quarterback pressures and zero sacks across 383 snaps. Although he needs to enhance his play strength, Lomu could provide a future solution at tackle, particularly given Lane Johnson‘s recent injury concerns.
Another name on the radar is Monroe Freeling, a left tackle from Georgia. At 6-foot-7 and 315 pounds, Freeling has shown promise, particularly in high-stakes situations. He is still relatively inexperienced with only 17 college starts but possesses the potential to develop into a reliable starter, potentially succeeding Johnson down the line.
For those looking at interior options, Olaivavega Ioane, a guard from Penn State, stands out. Standing 6-foot-4 and weighing 336 pounds, Ioane has consistently created running lanes and demonstrated strong pass protection skills. Despite the Nittany Lions’ less-than-stellar season, Ioane’s performance has been a silver lining, with only four pressures and zero sacks allowed across 311 pass-blocking snaps.
Finally, Avieon Terrell, a defensive back from Clemson, could be a strategic pick for the Eagles. The younger brother of Atlanta Falcons cornerback A.J. Terrell, Avieon has shown competitiveness in coverage, forcing five fumbles in 2025. Although he may struggle against larger receivers, his instincts and versatility make him a viable candidate to strengthen the Eagles’ secondary.
As the 2026 NFL Draft approaches, the Eagles’ decision-making will hinge on their strategic priorities, whether that involves addressing the offensive line, enhancing the tight end position, or reinforcing the secondary. Each of these prospects offers unique skills that could help shape the team’s future.
