Eagles predicted to bolster their trenches in 2025 NFL Draft

Thanks to a wealth of young talent already entrenched on the roster, the Philadelphia Eagles enter the 2025 NFL Draft in an enviable position: they can afford to draft for luxury rather than need. But don’t let that fool you — when it comes to Howie Roseman and draft weekend, “luxury” often means more big bodies up front.

Why the Eagles Will Prioritize the Lines

Despite making a few low-risk signings in free agency, the Eagles have clear long-term needs along both the offensive and defensive lines. With veteran pass rusher Brandon Graham now retired and Josh Sweat off to Arizona, Philly has a growing need for another edge presence opposite Nolan Smith Jr. and Jalyx Hunt.

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Yes, the team just signed Azeez Ojulari and Josh Uche to short-term deals, but those moves feel like stopgaps. Roseman is known for building from the trenches, and it’s hard to imagine a scenario where Philadelphia doesn’t target a top EDGE prospect within their first three picks.

Offensive Line Depth Also on the Radar

The Eagles could also go offensive line early. Longtime anchor Lane Johnson is nearing the end of his career, and with Mekhi Becton’s departure, there’s a clear need for depth at guard and tackle. According to CBS Sports’ Chris Trapasso, Philadelphia is predicted to take Ohio State tackle Josh Simmons with the No. 32 overall pick:

“As usual, Philadelphia plans ahead in the trenches, with the uber-talented but currently injured Simmons to eventually take over for Lane Johnson,” Trapasso wrote.

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Simmons, though currently rehabbing an injury, possesses first-round talent and could be a long-term solution at right tackle.

A Trade-Up for a Star EDGE?

Trapasso’s mock also suggests the Eagles may not stop there. He projects a trade-up with the Washington Commanders on Day 2 to land Arkansas EDGE Landon Jackson — an athletic, high-motor defender who racked up 35 pressures, 7 sacks, and 33 run stuffs in 2024.

Jackson fits the mold of a modern NFL edge rusher. As draft analyst Kyle Crabbs of The 33rd Team put it:

“He’s got a highly intriguing blend of skills for a variety of different schemes and roles… he can compress the edges of the pocket and reduce his angles to the quarterback.”

In this mock scenario, the Eagles give up pick No. 64, one of their four fifth-round selections (Nos. 161, 164, 165, or 168), and a potential 2026 Day 3 pick to jump to No. 61 overall and secure Jackson.

Expect Aggression in the Draft Room

After a relatively quiet start to free agency, don’t be surprised if Roseman and the Eagles ramp things up come draft weekend (April 24–26). With a few premium picks and ample mid-round capital, the team is well-positioned to reinforce its identity—dominating in the trenches.

Tackle, guard, EDGE, and even safety could all be in play early, but if history is any indicator, expect the Eagles to start where they always do: up front.