Nick Saban’s strong opinion on new Eagles WR Makai Lemon may dramatically change Philly fan opinions of the first-round pick

The legendary head coach wasn’t shy about revealing his thoughts on new Philadelphia Eagles WR Makai Lemon during the college football season. Check out what he had to say below.

Adam Holt — NFL News Writer
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Jan 1, 2026; Pasadena, CA, USA; Nick Saban on the ESPN College Gameday set during the 2026 Rose Bowl and quarterfinal game of the College Football Playoff at Rose Bowl Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

The Philadelphia Eagles surprised some folks when they traded up with the Dallas Cowboys in the first round of the 2026 NFL Draft. While many fans thought they may select a new offensive tackle, they actually opted for USC Trojans wide receiver Makai Lemon.

The 2025 Biletnikoff winner will join Jalen Hurts’ passing game on the Eagles offense. Nick Saban, one of the greatest college football coaches to ever do it, is a massive fan of Lemon’s game.

Nick Saban loves first-round Eagles WR Makai Lemon

During last season in college football, Saban praised Lemon in a major way. He said that Lemon was the best receiver he had seen this year.

“This guy is, in my opinion, the best receiver that I’ve seen this year.” — Saban on Makai Lemon

Lemon was also a part of Saban’s all-offense team for this year’s draft. He was one of three wide receivers, alongside Jordyn Tyson and Carnell Tate. Tate went fourth overall to the Tennessee Titans, while Tyson went eighth overall to the New Orleans Saints.

There was clearly value in the Eagles selecting Lemon with the 20th overall selection.

“Saban selected quarterback Fernando Mendoza, running back Jeremiyah Love, wide receivers Carnell Tate, Makai Lemon and Jordyn Tyson, tight end Kenyon Sadiq, left tackle Spencer Fano, Alabama left guard Kadyn Proctor, Florida center Jake Slaughter, right guard Olaivavega Ioane, and right guard Francis Mauigoa.” — Rolando Rosa

We will see if Lemon proves the historic CFB coach correct in the coming seasons for Philly.

As for the fan reaction to the pick, plenty of them are already planning for life after A.J. Brown. Taking Lemon with the team’s first pick makes it feel even more likely that the Eagles will trade Brown in a post-June 1 deal with the New England Patriots.

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