A 2026 NFL mock draft of options for the Eagles to replace Jaelan Phillips and complete the front with Jalen Carter and Co.

The Philadelphia Eagles will have several intriguing options available during the 2026 NFL Draft class.

Ryan Roberts — National College Football Writer
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Oct 25, 2025; Norman, Oklahoma, USA; Ole Miss Rebels quarterback Trinidad Chambliss (6) throws as Oklahoma Sooners defensive lineman R Mason Thomas (32) defends during the first half at Gaylord Family-Oklahoma Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images

When NFL free agency began, the Philadelphia Eagles had every intention to try to bring back star pass rusher Jaelan Phillips after trading for him during this past season. The former Miami Dolphins defensive end became an important member of the Eagles’ defensive front during his eight games in Philadelphia.

Despite their efforts to retain Phillips, a player they traded away a third round selection for, the Eagles were dealt some difficult news on Tuesday when it was announced that Phillips was signing a four-year, $120 million deal with the Carolina Panthers. That new contract makes Phillips one of the highest-paid defensive ends in the NFL. He is set to terrorize the NFC South in 2025.

With Phillips now gone, general manager Howie Roseman will now be pressed to find pass rush help to go along with Jalyx Hunt and Nolan Smith. With free agency still raging on, there are some options that the Eagles might take a long look at. They still have the 2026 NFL Draft class to find some talent to add to that room, as well.

Here are several talented EDGEs that could be available at each of the Eagles’ selections this April. This is not a true mock, but a mock draft exercise. The Philadelphia Eagles are not going to draft nine pass rushers in this class. This is merely an understanding of what players could be available in each spot.

Round 1, Pick 23: R Mason Thomas (Oklahoma)

Thomas is an undersized pass rusher, but he is a lot to handle for opposing offensive tackles. His first step and bend are tremendous, as is his effort as a rusher. Don’t be shocked if Thomas becomes a legitimate pass rush threat early in his career.

Round 2, Pick 54: Zion Young (Missouri)

As of today, I wouldn’t be shocked if Young goes a bit higher once the end of April rolls around. He is a big and physical EDGE who brings a high floor as a run defender. Even if Young never becomes a huge asset as a pass rusher, this is a winning football player.

Round 3, Pick 68: Gabe Jacas (Illinois)

There isn’t anything flashy about Jacas as a football player, but he is just extremely efficient. He has made a big impact as both a pass rusher and run defender with the Illinois program. Jacas also has the flexibility to reduce down and rush from the interior at times.

Round 3, Pick 98: Derrick Moore (Michigan)

If you love physical defensive ends with the ability to create speed to power, then you will love Moore. He plays with tremendous effort as a pass rusher, which should allow for a solid floor as an important rotational player.

Round 4, Pick 122: Romello Height (Texas Tech)

With some underwhelming size, Height isn’t going to be for everyone as an EDGE defender. There is still a ton of juice and bend to become a positive member of a pass rush unit. Third down is going to be Height’s opportunity to make his biggest impact for an NFL team.

Round 4, Pick 137: Keyron Crawford (Auburn)

The former Arkansas State transfer has some juice as a pass rusher, which he flashed at times over his two years with Auburn. While there are some limitations for Crawford as a run defender on the NFL level, his talent to get after the quarterback brings some intrigue to become a designated pass rusher.

Round 5, Pick 153: Anthony Lucas (USC)

Considered a top-50 recruit once upon a time, the Texas A&M transfer never seemed to hit his athletic ceiling. There are going to be some defensive line coaches out there who will still convince themselves that the best days for Lucas are still in front of him, which is possible.

Round 5, Pick 178: Tyreak Sapp (Florida)

Sapp is a bit sawed off but brings some notable explosiveness and power. He didn’t have the 2o25 season that many expected, but still possesses the physical tools to become a sound contributor for a defense.

Round 6, Pick 215: Mason Reiger (Wisconsin)

If not for the medicals for Reiger, he probably would go a bit higher than this, but the Eagles aren’t going to complain. The former Louisville transfer is an explosive athlete with some intriguing upside to still tap into.

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