2026 Philadelphia Eagles Rookie Preview

The Eagles learned the hard way that defending a Super Bowl title is harder than winning one. A one-and-done playoff exit, a traded superstar receiver, and yet another new offensive coordinator have Philly fans wondering if the championship window is starting to close. Howie Roseman answered with a draft class built to keep it propped open, headlined by USC playmaker Makai Lemon and a pipeline of developmental talent on both sides of the ball. Here's a look at the rookies who could shape the Birds' 2026 season and beyond.

Team Snapshot

Conference: NFC East
Head Coach: Nick Sirianni
2025 Record: 11-7
Key Games: Dallas, Washington, New York Giants, Seattle

Season Outlook

Like any team coming off a Super Bowl victory, the Eagles were no different. The expectation in Philly was winning back-to-back Lombardi Trophies, and that proved to be a bit unrealistic in the National Football League. Other defenses game-planned to stop running back Saquon Barkley and were successful (2,005 rushing yards in 2024 fell to 1,140 in 2025). Quarterback Jalen Hurts struggled with a new offensive coordinator, and his production came down. The defense was Top Five in points allowed (19.1) and kept the Birds in games, and Philadelphia made it to the postseason. But they were one-and-done, losing to the 49ers at home, and leading to some extremely harsh criticism, starting with HC Nick Sirianni. 

2026 Prediction

Projected Record: 12-5

There were some major changes in The City of Brotherly Love in the offseason. On offense, wideout A.J. Brown was traded (Patriots), and on defense, linebacker Nakobe Dean (Raiders), and safety Reed Blankenship (Texans) exited. Quarterback Jalen Hurts must get in sync with another new offensive coordinator (Sean Mannion) but was given a couple of new high draft-choice receivers to work with. Until the passing game starts to gel, look for the Eagles to fall back to a steady diet of running back Saquon Barkley behind a punishing offensive line. 

Expect defensive coordinator Vic Fangio to keep Philadelphia in the upper echelon of the NFL in points allowed. Last time the Birds were one-and-done in the playoffs was 2023 and they followed that up with a Super Bowl victory. Fans may be expecting the same in Philly this coming February. 

Rookie Prospects

Makai Lemon-WR-5’11”-194-USC

Lemon produced without the aid of top-level quarterbacks while at USC and scored 11 touchdowns last year. He’s extremely versatile, but his best position is likely at slot receiver. He’s lined up in the Wildcat and can be a threat as a returner. If he touches a pass, he catches it. Lemon may have trouble with taller defenders until he adjusts to the rigors of the league, but expect him to see the field starting Week 1.

Eli Stowers-TE-6’3”-239-Vanderbilt

Stowers had a varied collegiate career. He started as a backup QB at Texas A&M before moving to tight end in 2023 at New Mexico. He went on to win the John McKay Award in 2025 as the top tight end in college football. He’s experienced and a savvy route runner who finds the openings in a defense. While he may be limited as a blocker, he’s ready to play now.

Markel Bell-T-6’9”-346-Miami

Bell is a mountain of a man but is a project for the Birds. He tends to get off balance occasionally in pass protection, and his height can work against him when going against a much shorter defender. He has all the measurables (36.5-inch arms and 87-inch wingspan) and is coachable, making him a solid prospect who should develop with time and experience.

Cole Peyton-QB-6’2”-232-North Dakota State

Payton stayed at FCS NDSU despite offers from FBS-level programs. He was a one-year starter for the Bisons and was impressive at the Senior Bowl. He’s a lefty with a strong arm (29 TDs against 4 INTs) and has pinpoint accuracy (72.0 completion percentage). He’s not afraid to make plays with his legs, and at times, he’ll hold the ball too long in the pocket. Payton’s a project that will need seasoning.

Micah Morris-G-6’5”-334-Georgia

General Manager Howie Roseman loves to add Bulldogs to the roster (now up to 6). Morris has a good “get off” in drive blocking and plays best going straight ahead in the box. He needs some work on positioning and technique, but he has only allowed one sack in his collegiate career. He can play both right and left guard.

Cole Wisniewski-S-6’3”-219-Texas Tech

He played four seasons at North Dakota State before transferring to Texas Tech for the 2025 campaign. He brings physicality and steady tackling with a non-stop motor. Injury issues have plagued him in the past, but his pure size will give DC Vic Fangio some options in the back end. 

Uar Bernard-DT-6’4”-306-None

Bernard is a Nigerian native who made an impression through the NFL International Pathway Program. That’s the same program that brought offensive tackle Jordan Mailata to the Eagles. He has all the measurables with long arms and big hands, but is extremely raw, and the Eagles won’t rush his development.

Keyshawn James-Newby-DE-6’1”-240-New Mexico

James-Newby plays hard every snap. He’s fast and active, and as a situational player, he can rush the passer. He’s another project but will be given time to get bigger and learn to become a pro.