It’s always a good time to look at the NFL Draft with less of a lens only on the football aspect. It is an emotional process for young athletes, and the Philadelphia Eagles will make some dreams come true next week, along with every other team around the league.

5 NFL Draft prospects with surprising Eagles connections

Dane Brugler’s “The Beast” is an annual breakdown of a ton of draft prospects, and Brugler always includes some intriguing tidbits of info for players, even outside of football.

For the Eagles, five different prospects who are expected to hear their name called have some sort of ties to the city or team.

Robert Henry Jr., RB, UTSA

“Henry, who grew up a Philadelphia Eagles fan, started playing football at age 4 after his uncle introduced him to the sport.” — Brugler

The Eagles could give Henry a shot to earn a backup role for his long-time favorite football team.

Garrett Nussmeier, QB, LSU

Garrett’s father, Doug, played in the NFL and has now climbed the coaching ladder in the pros as well.

“He then joined the Chargers and Eagles as QBs coach in 2023 and ‘24, respectively, winning a Super Bowl with the latter. He is currently Kellen Moore’s offensive coordinator on the New Orleans Saints’ coaching staff.” — Brugler

Nussmeier is widely expected to be selected on day two of the draft. The Eagles already have three QBs on their roster, following the Andy Dalton trade. You can never rule out a QB selection for Philly, though.

Carnell Tate, WR, Ohio State

“During his freshman season at Marist, he picked up his first scholarship offer from then-Vanderbilt wide receivers coach Aaron Moorehead, now the Philadelphia Eagles’ receivers coach.” — Brugler

Tate is projected as a top fifteen pick in nearly every mock draft scenario, so landing him would have to be in a trade-up situation for the Eagles.

Josiah Trotter Jr., LB, Missouri

“A linebacker, he had three different stints with the Philadelphia Eagles over an 11-year NFL career and was voted to four Pro Bowls. Jeremiah Trotter Sr. was inducted into the Philadelphia Eagles Hall of Fame in 2016.” — Brugler

Linebacker is a need, so the Birds could choose to continue a family bloodline in green with the Tigers defender.

Latrell McCutchin Sr., CB, Houston

“Before his sophomore year, he transferred to LBJ Early College High School in Austin, where he was in the same graduating class as safety Andrew Mukuba (Philadelphia Eagles).” — Brugler

Mukuba is expected to be a key piece to Philly’s secondary in 2026. Adding McCutchin could improve the upside and camaraderie of the group on the back end for Vic Fangio.