How Will Each Philadelphia Eagles Rookie Fit In With the Team?

If blocking remains a work in progress, Mundt is extremely capable, so it won’t be a make-or-break for Stowers’ playing time. While his stats might not stand out this year, with enough double-tight end formations, or by stepping up at the right time, Stowers can make an immediate impact, especially in the end zone.

Round 3, Pick 4 (No. 68 overall): Markell Bell, Offensive Tackle, Miami

Markell Bell joins the long list of Eagles offensive linemen drafted as developmental projects. Bell is huge, and his feet are not necessarily slow for his size; however, he will need to improve. The key difference between Bell as a project and previous projects like Jordan Mailata is that Jeff Stoutland is no longer the Eagles’ offensive line coach. The line’s scheme is likely to change significantly with Stoutland gone, as Lane Johnson noted in a recent news conference. The main thing to watch is Bell’s development through OTAs, training camp and the season, as he does not appear to be in line for significant playing time if all goes according to plan. This does not mean Bell won’t be ready soon, as he is already being prioritized over Myles Hinton for backup left tackle. Chris Kuper also seems more than capable as a line coach, and there is hope he can emulate Stoutland’s ability to develop prospects.

Round 5, Pick 38 (No. 178 overall): Cole Payton, Quarterback, North Dakota State

Cole Payton being selected in the fifth round is far from an indictment of the Eagles’ current quarterback situation, despite the narrative about Jalen Hurts’ job security. Payton appears to be in line to take over Tanner McKee’s role, as McKee has been demoted to third-string quarterback in OTAs. The situation appears to be trending toward a trade for McKee. The goal for Payton would be a few good moments as a backup within his rookie contract, then being traded for more value than was spent on him. That being a fifth-round pick, there is definite upside in that department. Andy Dalton also adds a wrinkle to the situation; nonetheless, there will not be many opportunities for Payton in the foreseeable future. The situation is far from Payton breathing down Hurts’ neck.

Round 6, Pick 26 (No. 207 overall): Micah Morris, Guard, Georgia

Another offensive line project, this time in the interior. As it stands, Morris is a depth pick who can relieve pressure from the oft-injured Landon Dickerson. Morris shows rare athleticism for his size but needs the development and mentoring mentioned earlier with Markell Bell. With the right attitude and a penchant for learning, Morris could become a permanent fixture in the future of the offensive line. That depends on many factors; for now, he is a depth piece with a lot to prove.

Round 7, Pick 28 (No. 244 overall): Cole Wisniewski, Safety, Texas Tech

Cole Wisniewski performed well at Texas Tech and stood out as a tackler in open space — something teams wants to see from a safety. That said, there is more merit to Cooper DeJean helping out at the safety spot currently occupied by Marcus Epps than Wisniewski getting any meaningful playing time. Wisniewski has yet to make an impact in OTAs, and that is not likely to change come training camp. He was worth the pick, but his actual role with the Eagles is extremely uncertain.

Round 7, Pick 35 (No. 251 overall): Uar Bernard, Defensive Tackle, International Pathways

There has been a lot of buzz around Uar Bernard, from the media to everyone in the Eagles organization.

His athleticism is something all Eagles fans—and fans of other teams—are aware of at this point. There has not been much reported on how he has fared in OTAs yet. Over the course of the offseason—joint practices, training camp, preseason games—there will soon be a real sense of where he is, football-wise. It is important not to place too many or too high expectations on Bernard at this point, as he is only just learning the sport. There is real confidence, though, that sometime in the next couple of seasons he will make his presence known. He could have a similar breakout as Jaylx Hunt. This pick was made with patience in mind.

Round 7, Pick 36 (No. 252 overall): Keyshawn James-Newby, defensive end, New Mexico

There is not much to go on with Keyshawn James-Newby. He finds himself at the bottom of the depth chart, similar to Uar Bernard, but his situation is not the same. Bernard is expected to have a long runway to acclimate to the league. In contrast, James-Newby was very productive in college and is likely expected to contribute sooner rather than later. This pick is reminiscent of Antwuan Powell-Ryland, and not just because of the hyphenated last name. Anything above the practice squad would be a success for James-Newby.

Eagles Rookies In Store for a Big Summer

Looking ahead, it will be important to see Lemon ramp up as the season approaches, track Stower’s progress as a blocker in relation to his role on the team, and gauge the potential of the other draft picks. The team has completely retooled and made significant adjustments at all levels, including the coaching staff. The one exception remains the safety position. This could be indicative of trust in Epps or a bigger move to come.   The preseason will benefit all the young players and new additions alike. It will allow guys such as A.J. Epenesa and Dontayvion Wicks time as they adjust to the system. It will also allow the coaching staff to assess players’ progress both individually and in relation to one another. That is an important task for this Eagles team stacked with new talent.