Eagles Eye Draft Picks Amid Free-Agency Shakeup
At a Glance
- The Eagles will select No. 23 in the 2025 draft.
- Free-agency starts in March, draft in late April.
- Analysts point to tight end, defensive back, lineman, and receiver options.
- Why it matters: The team’s first-round pick could shape the roster after a disappointing wild-card exit.
The Philadelphia Eagles finished the season with a disappointing wild-card loss, leaving the organization to focus on the upcoming free-agency window and draft. With free-agency kicking off in March and the draft slated for late April, the Eagles are locked into the No. 23 spot in the first round. Analysts are already mapping out how the team could address key positions with the pick.
Draft Position and Free-Agency Landscape
The Eagles’ first-round selection is set at No. 23, a spot that will remain unchanged unless the team wins the Super Bowl. The free-agency period, beginning in March, will test whether the Eagles can retain or replace pivotal players before the draft. This timing creates a window where roster decisions may shift the value of the upcoming pick.
Free-Agency Impact
Free-agency, beginning in March, brings uncertainty for key positions that could either be retained or lost before the draft. If Dallas Goedert departs, the tight-end group will face a significant gap that could pressure the Eagles to use their first-round pick on a player who can immediately contribute. Conversely, if the team secures a new tight end in free-agency, the value of the No. 23 selection might shift toward other critical areas such as defense or offense.
Mock Draft Options
Analysts from multiple outlets have outlined their preferred selections for the Eagles’ No. 23 pick. Each projection reflects the team’s needs, from tight end depth to defensive back versatility. The following table summarizes the consensus choices.
| Analyst | Pick | Position | College |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dalton Wasserman (PFF) | Kenyon Sadiq | TE | Oregon |
| Ayrton Ostly (USA Today Sports) | Kenyon Sadiq | TE | Oregon |
| Mel Kiper Jr. (ESPN) | Avieon Terrell | CB | Clemson |
| Daniel Jeremiah (NFL Network) | Avieon Terrell | CB | Clemson |
| Dane Brugler (The Athletic) | Kadyn Proctor | OT/G | Alabama |
| Keith Sanchez (The Draft Network) | KC Concepcion | WR | Texas A&M |
Organizational Strategy
The Eagles’ organizational strategy appears to hinge on balancing immediate needs with long-term development. By selecting a versatile player, such as Kadyn Proctor, the team could secure a foundational role while still addressing pressing gaps. This approach mirrors the front office’s recent history of seeking versatile talent to maximize roster efficiency.
Tight End Prospects
Both Dalton Wasserman and Ayrton Ostly see Kenyon Sadiq as the ideal answer to the tight-end void left by Dallas Goedert’s impending free-agency. “Philadelphia may allow Dallas Goedert to leave in free agency, creating a significant void at tight end,” Wasserman noted, adding that Sadiq’s 560 receiving yards ranked eighth among FBS tight ends this season. Ostly echoed the sentiment, saying Sadiq “is a vertical threat and a willing blocker with plenty of runway to improve. He’ll be a 21-year-old rookie.”
The Eagles’ front office has struggled to secure a first-round tight end in recent years. Howie Roseman’s last first-round pick at the position was Keith Jackson in 1988, and he has only drafted tight ends in the second round since. Sadiq’s dual threat as a receiver and blocker aligns with the role that made Goedert a cornerstone of the offense.
Defensive Back Considerations
Mel Kiper Jr. and Daniel Jeremiah both advocate for Avieon Terrell to fill the CB2 spot that has seen limited success. Kiper explained, “The Eagles tried to fix the CB2 position opposite Quinyon Mitchell with trades for Jaire Alexander and Michael Carter II, but neither move did the trick.” He highlighted Terrell’s 9 pass breakups and 5 forced fumbles in 2025, noting his proficiency in man coverage. Jeremiah added that Terrell’s versatility would allow the secondary to shift between inside and outside coverage, potentially creating the best young secondary in the NFL.
The defensive backfield has been a focus for the Eagles, especially after the mid-season departure of Jaire Alexander. Terrell’s ability to play both inside and outside could give the coaching staff flexibility as they refine the secondary’s alignment. However, selecting a third high-draft defensive back would represent a significant investment in that position over the next three years.
Offensive Line Potential
Dane Brugler’s projection of Kadyn Proctor brings a massive blocker into the Eagles’ interior line. “At 6-7, 360, Proctor is a massive blocker with unique talent,” Brugler noted, emphasizing the need for competition at guard and a long-term option at tackle. The uncertainty surrounding Landon Dickerson’s future and Tyler Steen’s inconsistent play further heightens the appeal of a dual-position lineman.
The Eagles have not selected a first-round offensive lineman since Andre Dillard at No. 22 in 2019, making the prospect of adding a versatile lineman all the more compelling. Bringing in a player who can play both guard and tackle could address immediate gaps while also securing a long-term cornerstone for the franchise. The decision will also factor in the potential return of Lane Johnson for a 14th season, adding another variable to the offensive line picture.
Wide Receiver Outlook
Keith Sanchez points to KC Concepcion as a solution if the Eagles part ways with A.J. Brown, describing him as a “versatile-alignment receiver” capable of working all three levels of the field. Concepcion’s college production includes 61 passes for 919 yards and 9 touchdowns, with notable punt-return contributions that add value to special teams. The prospect’s size-5-11, 190 pounds-differs from the prototypical wide receiver, but his playmaking ability could complement DeVonta Smith’s skill set.
The receiver corps has been relatively thin, with DeVonta Smith and Darius Cooper as the primary targets. Concepcion’s experience as a punt returner adds another dimension to the Eagles’ special teams, potentially creating a multi-role player. If the A.J. Brown situation resolves, the Eagles could benefit from depth and versatility at the wide-receiver position.
Timeline
The timeline for the Eagles’ roster decisions is tightly packed, with free-agency beginning in March and the draft scheduled for late April. The organization will need to assess whether to retain current players or to seek replacements before the draft, as these choices could influence the value of the No. 23 pick. A clear timeline will help the front office prioritize positions and make informed selections.
Conclusion
The Eagles’ No. 23 pick offers a chance to address multiple roster gaps before the free-agency period concludes. Tight-end, defensive-back, offensive-line, and receiver options all carry potential to shape the team’s trajectory. Ultimately, the decision will hinge on how the organization balances immediate needs with long-term development.
Key Takeaways
- Tight end: Kenyon Sadiq provides immediate impact and versatility.
- Defensive back: Avieon Terrell offers turnover potential and depth.
- Offensive line: Kadyn Proctor could be a foundational, multi-position player.
- Wide receiver: KC Concepcion brings versatility and special-teams value.
- The No. 23 selection is a strategic tool to address both short-term fixes and long-term growth.
meta_description: “The Eagles’ No. 23 draft pick, set for late April, is pivotal amid March free-agency, with analysts pointing to tight end, defensive back, lineman, and receiver options.”
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