Howie Roseman takes unexpected risk in latest mock draft that would immediately improve Eagles’ Super Bowl chances in 2026
The Eagles have a massive need in the secondary. Should they attack it in the first round or take a more conservative approach and look elsewhere? Check out this latest pick for Philly in a mock draft.
Mock drafts continue to fly, and the Philadelphia Eagles are not an easy to predict for the first round. Safety, pass rusher, and offensive tackle all stand out as clear needs. Wide receiver and linebacker loom as potential spots of interest early in the draft, too.
Eagles replace Reed Blankenship with first-round safety in mock draft
In the latest mock draft from A to Z Sports, created from a collaboration by a plethora of contributors, the Eagles went with Toledo safety Emmanuel McNeil-Warren in the first round.
“Philly opts to surprise some folks and takes a safety in the first round. That hasn’t been Howie Roseman’s mantra in the past, but the need is so crystal clear. They’ve got a lot of excitement surrounding Andrew Mukuba, but he lacks experience. Reed Blankenship left in free agency. EMW can immediately step into a role as a rookie and presents a unique skillset as a potential “center-fielder” of the secondary for Philly.” – A to Z Sports
Why this pick makes sense for Philadelphia
A safety? No way, right? Actually, yes. The Eagles’ biggest hole on their defense is at the position. While I do not believe you should address solely need in round one of the draft,, the blend of value and need on their roster matches here.
Losing Reed Blankenship should not be overlooked.
Not only was he a starter for Vic Fangio – the depth behind him is rather unproven. There’s a lot of faith in Andrew Mukuba as a long-term option at safety, but he is coming off a major injury. Behind him, there are veteran role players who should not be counted on to start on a weekly basis.
McNeil-Warren can step in during year one alongside one of the top cornerback rooms in the entire NFL, especially after the Birds added Tariq Woolen to play opposite of Quinyon Mitchell on the outside, while Cooper DeJean patrols the slot normally.
This selection is one that Howie Roseman should consider if given the chance in the 20s.
“There is a lot to like about McNeil-Warren. Length, explosiveness, downhill trigger, and range are all over his tape, proving he is perfect for a quarters and cover three scheme. He will attack ball carriers as he flies across the field, and he is a true centerfielder with arguably the best range in the class when asked to patrol the middle third of the gridiron. He has some shakiness in the man-coverage and footwork department, but he will play a valuable role at the next level.” — Rob Gregson
Via the A to Z Sports prospect database, he is a projected late first or early second-round pick in this year’s draft.
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