Eagles’ biggest roster need may actually make Howie Roseman’s job a lot simpler during 2026 NFL Draft
The Eagles have multiple routes to success early and often during the 2026 NFL Draft.
It has been no secret that plenty of talent evaluators do not believe this is one of the strongest NFL Draft classes in recent years. Even then, it is important for every team to garner talent, depth, and upside during the process.
The Philadelphia Eagles will look to accommodate some roster holes, with general manager Howie Roseman leading the charge as per usual. Do the class and first round projections predict some good fortune for the Birds?
Pass rusher may be the strength of the board when Eagles pick in first round
I think the answer to that question is a resounding “yes” right now.
The Eagles may have an opportunity to select a pass rusher with the 23rd overall pick, and many mock drafts currently have some of the best available prospects in that range being of that position. Accordingly, the Eagles may be able to blend value with need in round one when they pick.
“After losing Josh Sweat and Jaelan Phillips over the last two offseasons, Vic Fangio’s defense looks light on the edges. Nolan Smith and Jalyx Hunt have both flashed ability, but the Eagles’ edge group lacks the kind of bite we’ve come to expect from true contenders. Top prospects like Arvell Reese, David Bailey and Rueben Bain Jr. will be long gone by the time Philadelphia comes on the board, but the 23rd pick could be a sweet spot for a number of intriguing-albeit-imperfect edges like Akheem Mesidor (just turned 25), Cashius Howell (short arms), T.J. Parker (production drop-off in 2025) and Keldric Faulk(undeveloped pass-rushing plan).” — NFL.com
Losing Jaelan Phillips was arguably Philly’s largest free agency subtraction.
Wide receiver can be addressed on day two
As for the possibility of an A.J. Brown trade looming, I think that is a need for the offense that the Eagles should look at in rounds two and three.
After adding Dontayvion Wicks to the fold via trade last week, pass catching talent feels a bit less major of an issue right now.
Instead, addressing the EDGE rusher need, and maybe even the long-term offensive tackle concern or immediate safety issue, makes the most sense before looking at WR. While Hollywood Brown and Wicks are not splashy additions, they will hold a role in 2026.
