Eagles rookie Makai Lemon makes 'tough' injury admission

The Philadelphia Eagles went to great lengths to get their hands on Makai Lemon.

They traded up in the first round of the 2026 NFL Draft to get their hands on the USC product, tabbed as this class's top slot specialist.

So far, it's been pretty rough for him. Hamstring injuries cost him crucial reps in OTAs and spring workouts, and he's also missed practice in training camp, not to mention his team's two preseason games.

Lemon has been hit with 'bust' and 'disappointing' labels. When asked about that, he admitted it hasn't been easy, but he's just taking it one day at a time.

Makai Lemon wants to be a pro amid injury issues

“It was definitely tough,” Lemon told The Athletic. “I’m real competitive. Ain’t never want to be away from this game. So, me knowing that it’s the hamstring again, I’m just making sure I take the right precautions. (I’m) learning from it so it doesn’t happen again.”

Lemon is focusing on what he can control. He hasn't always been able to be out there on the field and get the work done, but he's still trying to get better and do whatever he can to be ready for when it counts.

“You’re supposed to take the mental rep, come out here and bring it to life,” Lemon said. “That’s about being a professional.”

Lemon drew comparisons to fellow USC standout Amon-Ra St. Brown, though there were some concerns about his leaner, smaller frame.

The Eagles traded star WR A.J. Brown and had high hopes for their rookie pass catcher.

Still, hamstring injuries tend to linger and can turn into chronic ailments, so they will have no choice but to err on the side of caution and hope that he's healthy enough to contribute at some point in the season.

And even if that's not the case, giving up on a player after just one year is rarely a wise decision.