Eagles' 2026 Rookie Class: Lemon as a Solid Starter, Bell as the Most Likely Bust

The Philadelphia Eagles entered the 2026 NFL Draft with a clear need at wide receiver after A.J. Brown's departure. In response, they traded up in the first round to select USC’s Makai Lemon. While Lemon projects as a solid starter, the Eagles did not land a boom pick in the class. Third-round tackle Markel Bell is the most likely to bust, and tight end Eli Stowers is best suited for a rotational role.

Makai Lemon, selected in the first round, is a slot-oriented receiver with quickness and route precision. At 5-10 and 180 pounds, Lemon lacks size but compensates with explosive route-breaking and leaping ability. In college, he averaged 14.8 yards per catch with 12 touchdowns in 14 games. His ability to win contested catches and create separation in the slot makes him a good fit alongside DeVonta Smith and newly acquired veterans. However, Lemon’s limitations as a vertical threat and his small frame may cap his ceiling as a No. 2 or No. 3 receiver in the NFL.

The Eagles also selected Eli Stowers in the third round as a backup tight end. At 6-3 and 239 pounds, Stowers has the size and athleticism to be a receiving threat, but his blocking limitations may prevent him from being a three-down starter. He caught 42 passes for 580 yards and five touchdowns in 2025. While he can contribute in specific packages, especially in double-tight sets, he is unlikely to replace Dallas Goedert as the starter.

The most concerning pick in the class is Markel Bell, a third-round offensive tackle from Miami. With Lane Johnson entering the final year of his contract, the Eagles sought depth at tackle. Bell, however, lacks the size and technique to consistently match up with NFL pass rushers. He struggled against top competition in college, allowing 14 pressures in 10 games. Given the speed of the NFL’s edge rush, Bell may only serve as a swing tackle at best.

The 2026 Eagles draft class adds value but lacks a clear breakout prospect. With Jalen Hurts at quarterback and a run-first offensive scheme, Lemon’s role as a slot receiver fits well. Bell and Stowers are more likely to offer depth than long-term solutions. The Eagles will look to the 2027 draft to address more pressing needs and potentially land a franchise-changing talent.