Eagles' NFL draft strategy could emphasizes OL help early in Round 1
The Philadelphia Eagles are expected to prioritize offensive line depth early, continuing their long-standing commitment to building through the trenches.
The Eagles, led by GM Howie Roseman, don't wait for decline—they prepare for it. That mindset could once again lead Philadelphia to prioritize offensive line help early in Round 1 for the first time since landing Lane Johnson. The Eagles have used picks on cornerbacks, linebackers, defensive tackles, and multiple other positions outside of the trenches, but that should change this April.
Over the past three years, Philadelphia has used early draft capital on other key positions and hasn't drafted an offensive lineman in the first two rounds since Cam Jurgens in 2022. With the first round approaching, multiple reports and league chatter point to the offensive line as a priority for Philadelphia. While the Eagles still boast one of the league's most respected units, there are long-term questions about depth, aging veterans, and future succession plans.
Since 2011, the Eagles have used a first-round pick on a lineman three times and a second-round pick twice. Talented offensive linemen don't hit Free agency, and Philadelphia will use the next two drafts to secure optimal talent in the trenches, with Lane Johnson and Landon Dickerson closer to retirement than we think. Jordan Mailata has hinted at retirement, while Cam Jurgens will look to work back from a back injury.
General manager Howie Roseman has consistently invested premium resources into the offensive line, and this draft presents another opportunity to reinforce that strength. Interior versatility, in particular, is expected to be a key trait the Eagles target, with prospects capable of playing guard and center drawing attention. Alabama's Kaydn Proctor, Clemson's Blake Miller, and Arizona State's Max Iheanachor are names to watch, while Georgia's Monroe Freeling would be the prize.