Why 'early judgments' on Makai Lemon, Eagles draft class are wrong

The Philadelphia Eagles are cautious about their 2026 draft class, despite optimistic initial assessments. Wide receiver Makai Lemon missed most of training camp with a hamstring injury and appeared to struggle when playing. Second-round pick Eli Stowers, a tight end, also missed several sessions and now has a hamstring injury. Third-round tackle Markel Bell showed promise but is unlikely to replace established tackles Jordan Mailata or Lane Johnson.

The Eagles also drafted a fifth-round quarterback, sixth-round guard, and three seventh-rounders who were waived shortly after the NFL's cutdown day. Eagles General Manager Howie Roseman advises against premature judgments on the draft class, emphasizing the importance of evaluating players' development over multiple seasons. While Lemon may see limited playing time in the upcoming season, the Eagles remain confident in the long-term potential of their draft picks.