Story perspectives

Eagles Trade Up, Draft USC WR Makai Lemon

4/25/2026

Summary

Eagles Draft Moves

The Eagles traded with Dallas to move up three spots and pick USC wide receiver Makai Lemon at No. 20.
They drafted Vanderbilt tight end Eli Stowers at No. 54.
They sent the No. 98 pick to Minnesota for defensive end Jonathan Greenard, losing two third-round picks and gaining a seventh-round pick.
GM Howie Roseman said missing a fourth-round hurts but he remains confident in the players and Day 3 picks.

Summary

Eagles Target Guard

The Eagles’ top draft priority is an offensive-line guard to replace Lane Johnson and protect Landon Dickerson.
They also target pass-rush depth, eyeing veteran edge rusher Jonathan Greenard or free-agent Arnold Ebiketie.
Because the safety position lacks upside, the team plans to consider veteran Louis Moore later in the draft.
Coach Vic Fangio’s scheme values ball-hawking safeties, prompting a plan to add rookie safety competition in the third round.

Summary

Bell Adjusts

Jeff Stoutland left the Eagles before the draft, raising questions about Bell’s development.
Bell will rely on veterans Jordan Mailata and Fred Johnson for mentorship.
Analysts say Bell’s height and length require a gap-scheme attack, forcing the staff to adjust protection schemes.
The loss of a line coach coincides with drafting a raw third-round tackle, suggesting a longer timeline for Bell.

History

Historical Context

After Andy Reid’s 1999 overhaul—trading three future first-round picks and a 2000 second-rounder to the 49ers for the No. 2 slot and drafting quarterback Donovan McNabb—the Eagles entered a decade of playoff runs. GM Howie Roseman now repeats that aggressive philosophy, swapping picks with Dallas and Minnesota to acquire wideout Makai Lemon and defensive end Jonathan Greenard, echoing the 1999 strategy.

1 of 4

Eagles Draft Moves

The Eagles traded with Dallas to move up three spots and pick USC wide receiver Makai Lemon at No. 20.
They drafted Vanderbilt tight end Eli Stowers at No. 54.
They sent the No. 98 pick to Minnesota for defensive end Jonathan Greenard, losing two third-round picks and gaining a seventh-round pick.
GM Howie Roseman said missing a fourth-round hurts but he remains confident in the players and Day 3 picks.

1 / 4