Philadelphia’s 2026 NFL Draft planning, big board construction, and key targets evaluated at the Scouting Combine across multiple positions

Philadelphia’s 2026 NFL Draft Planning: Big Board Strategy and Key Combine Evaluations

As the NFL offseason progresses, the Philadelphia Eagles are intensively refining their draft approach for 2026, leveraging insights from the NFL Scouting Combine and internal evaluations. Their evolving big board reflects a clear focus on building a versatile, high-upside roster aligned with their strategic vision of modernizing the team’s offensive and defensive units.

Evolving Mock Drafts and Draft Philosophy

Analyzing recent mock drafts and expert opinions reveals a consensus that the Eagles prioritize trenched, versatile players—particularly on the offensive line and in the trenches. Their draft philosophy centers on selecting high-upside prospects from programs renowned for physicality and scheme fit, such as Penn State and Ohio State. This aligns with their long-term goal of fortifying their offensive front with interior linemen and versatile tackles capable of thriving in a pass-heavy offense.

Recent mock drafts show a split outlook on the first-round direction, with some analysts emphasizing interior offensive linemen and edge rushers, while others highlight secondary prospects. The Eagles’ internal meetings at the combine suggest a disciplined approach, emphasizing developmental potential and positional versatility—traits vital for sustaining success in a scheme that is increasingly pass-centric.

Specific Combine Meetings and Performances Influencing the Board

The NFL Combine has been a critical venue for the Eagles to evaluate top prospects and refine their big board. They have held targeted meetings with key players, notably:

• Cornerbacks and Secondary Prospects: The Eagles met with Clemson’s All-American cornerback and a Second-Team All-American safety, signaling a strong interest in bolstering their secondary. These meetings are driven by their desire to find versatile coverage players capable of fitting into their scheme-diverse defense.

• Pass Rushers and Edge Talents: Prospects such as Jaelan Phillips and other high-ceiling edge defenders have attracted scrutiny. Phillips, in particular, has impressed at the combine with athletic testing, reinforcing his potential as a disruptive force—an area where Philadelphia seeks to upgrade, especially with trade negotiations ongoing for players like Maxx Crosby.

• Offensive Line Prospects: The combine has also seen the Eagles engaging with top interior linemen and tackles from powerhouse college programs. Their focus is on high-upside trench players who can develop into foundational starters, supporting the team's shift toward a more explosive, scheme-diverse offense.

How Combine Performances Are Shaping the Big Board

Combine results have solidified several prospects’ positions on the Eagles' draft board:

• Athletic Testing: Defensive linemen and linebackers with exceptional agility and strength are rising in priority, aligning with the team’s emphasis on creating pressure and improving run defense.

• Interview Insights: Player interviews have provided additional context—character, football IQ, and adaptability—factors that influence the Eagles’ strategic selections.

• Position-Specific Evaluations: The combine performances have been instrumental in assessing prospects’ fit for the Eagles' scheme, especially for versatile defenders who can line up across multiple positions.

Supplementing the Strategy with External Market Activity

In addition to their combine efforts, the Eagles are actively exploring external upgrades through trade. Negotiations for disruptive pass rushers like Maxx Crosby and Jaelan Phillips are underway, aiming to bolster their front seven. These external moves, combined with their draft focus, showcase their commitment to maintaining a pressure-oriented, adaptable defense.

Final Thoughts: A Balanced, Long-Term Approach

Philadelphia’s draft planning for 2026 exemplifies a strategic blend of internal evaluation and external market activity. Their big board emphasizes:

• Interior offensive linemen and versatile tackles for offensive resilience.
• High-ceiling edge rushers to enhance pass-rush capacity.
• Secondary prospects to upgrade coverage units.

The combine has played a pivotal role in refining these priorities, providing valuable data and face-to-face evaluations. As they approach the draft, the Eagles remain committed to selecting players who can develop into core starters—high-upside talents that fit their scheme-diverse philosophy and position them for sustained success in the NFL’s competitive landscape.