If Jason Kelce, the longstanding center for the Philadelphia Eagles, decides to retire, Jackson Powers-Johnson, a former starter for the Oregon Ducks, could emerge as the perfect replacement.
This scenario is entirely feasible for the Eagles, albeit requiring a slight trade-up in the draft, given Powers-Johnson’s projected selection in the middle of the first round.
According to NFL.com’s Chad Reuter and his recent three-round mock draft, the Eagles would need to make a move. In Reuter’s projection, the Eagles would exchange first-round picks with the Seattle Seahawks, moving from No. 22 to No. 16 overall, where they would select Powers-Johnson.
Standing at 6-foot-3 and weighing 320 pounds, Powers-Johnson enters the draft following a successful collegiate career at Oregon, where he appeared in 36 games for the Ducks. Although Kelce has not yet announced his retirement decision, Powers-Johnson stands out as one of the most promising and versatile offensive linemen available in the first round.
During the Senior Bowl, which showcases some of the nation’s top NFL draft prospects, Powers-Johnson demonstrated his skills in practice drills, excelling equally at both center and guard positions. While he didn’t participate in the actual Senior Bowl due to a hamstring tweak during mid-week practice, his performance in drills left a lasting impression on analysts.
In his senior year at Oregon, Powers-Johnson’s pass-blocking prowess was evident, as he played 497 pass block snaps and allowed only a single QB hurry, according to PFF (Pro Football Focus). Over his last three seasons, he has maintained an impressive record in pass protection, conceding no sacks and allowing just one QB hit and three hurries in 758 pass rush snaps.
Acquiring Powers-Johnson would represent a compelling and strategic move for the Philadelphia Eagles, signaling their intention to be aggressive in the offseason and return to contention for the Super Bowl.
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