19 January, 2026
eagles-eye-potential-stars-with-no-23-pick-in-2026-nfl-draft

The Philadelphia Eagles are gearing up for the 2026 NFL Draft, where they hold the No. 23 overall pick. Following a disappointing end to their Super Bowl title defense, the team seeks to address some positional uncertainties while maintaining a strong core. With the draft approaching, speculation abounds regarding potential targets that could bolster both the offensive and defensive lines, as well as add depth to the tight end position.

The last time the Eagles selected in the early 20s of the draft was in 2024, when they chose defensive back Quinyon Mitchell, who has since achieved first-team NFL All-Pro status. As the team looks to further enhance its roster, several players have emerged as likely candidates for selection.

Key Prospects for the Eagles

Among the top prospects is Kadyn Proctor, an offensive tackle from the University of Alabama. Standing at 6-foot-7 and weighing 366 pounds, Proctor possesses remarkable athleticism and powerful striking ability. Despite some inconsistencies in his blocking technique during the 2025 season, his potential as either a tackle or guard could be refined under the guidance of Eagles’ offensive line coach Jeff Stoutland. His ability to excel in run blocking while providing solid pass protection makes him a valuable asset for the team.

Another promising name is Kenyon Sadiq, a tight end from the University of Oregon. Notable for his athleticism and blocking capabilities, the 6-foot-3, 245-pound player finished his season with a team-leading eight receiving touchdowns. Sadiq’s ability to navigate through zone coverage and make contested catches highlights his value in the red zone. Although he needs to improve his route running and ball security—having recorded six drops in 2025—his addition could rejuvenate the Eagles’ tight end group, which may face changes if Dallas Goedert departs.

Defensive needs may also direct the Eagles’ attention to Avieon Terrell, a defensive back from Clemson University. The younger brother of A.J. Terrell from the Atlanta Falcons, Avieon has shown promise, particularly in man coverage, despite a slight frame at 5-foot-11 and 180 pounds. His capacity to force turnovers, including five fumbles in 2025, positions him as a competitive candidate for the Eagles’ secondary.

Additional Candidates for Consideration

Other noteworthy prospects include Caleb Lomu from the University of Utah and Monroe Freeling from the University of Georgia. Lomu, a redshirt sophomore, has demonstrated exceptional pass protection skills, allowing merely eight quarterback pressures across 383 pass-blocking snaps. His agility and technique provide a solid foundation for potential development as a future tackle for the Eagles, especially with the aging of veteran Lane Johnson.

Freeling, a 6-foot-7, 315-pound left tackle, has gained traction among draft analysts for his performance during high-stakes games, notably in the playoffs. Although relatively inexperienced with only 17 starts, his potential to develop into a solid NFL player could make him an attractive option for the Eagles.

Finally, Olaivavega Ioane, an offensive guard from Penn State, stands out for his physicality and ability to create running lanes. At 6-foot-4 and 336 pounds, Ioane has maintained an impressive record, allowing just four pressures and no sacks throughout the season, indicating his readiness to compete at a high level.

As the Eagles prepare for the draft, their strategy will likely hinge on addressing immediate needs while positioning themselves for future success. The choices made at the No. 23 pick will undoubtedly have significant implications for the team’s trajectory.