Grading the pick: Eagles draft OT Markel Bell, and the decision may make Philly miss Jeff Stoutland even more
The Philadelphia Eagles just added a developmental, gargantuan offensive tackle to their depth chart. Former offensive line coach Jeff Stoutland would love this pick – if he was still with the organization.
The Philadelphia Eagles and head coach Nick Sirianni are taking massive swing in the third round of this year’s NFL Draft. Literally.
Eagles select OT Markel Bell in third round of 2026 NFL Draft
The Eagles have selected Miami Hurricanes offensive tackle Markel Bell with the 68th overall pick. Bell is a massive tackle prospect who is considered a developmental piece that could turn into an NFL starter down the road.
There are big offensive tackles. There are mammoth offensive tackles. And then there’s Markel Bell. 6-foot-9 and a quarter, 346 pounds, and an 87″ wingspan. It is comically large. You could argue, though, that Bell’s size is both a blessing and a curse. Being that big yields a very high center of mass, which limits his lateral quickness and change-of-direction ability. It’s not a big issue working off the ball to block a defensive end, but it is a challenge for him when trying to frame a wide-nine pass rusher or when trying to climb to the second level to pick off a scraping linebacker. There is a law of diminishing returns that Markel Bell will ultimately test. You can be big. You can be huge…but being this big is almost a complication. His ability to thrive and play will be centered on keeping his frame lean to maximize his gravitational pull and reactive quickness.
Kyle Crabbs
A to Z Sports
The Eagles could certainly be planning on a “redshirt” style of year in 2026 for Bell as Lane Johnson finishes his career. Bell could be seen as a long-term replacement for Johnson. The long-time star tackle considered retirement this offseason and may hang up his cleats following this campaign for the Eagles.
Jeff Stoutland would have done wonders for this player
When you think of Stoutland’s impact on OL play for Philly, it was always low-floor, high-ceiling options who found success for him even when fans or scouts did not expect it.
For Bell, he is a similar style to guys that Stoutland loved to coach up. Jordan Mailata was relatively brand new to football when he joined the Eagles as young player, and Stoutland changed the entire trajectory of his life and career.
Stoutland won’t be in the building in 2026 to help Bell’s growth and may not return to the Eagles organization during his career. Accordingly, there is plenty of pressure on Philly’s new offensive staff to hone in on Bell’s strengths and create a future difference maker in his profile as an NFL player.
