The Philadelphia Eagles are gearing up for the 2026 NFL season, and with OTAs on the horizon, it's time to take a closer look at the team's 53-man roster prediction. As an expert editorial writer, I'm here to provide my insights and analysis, offering a unique perspective on the Eagles' depth chart. From the offense to the defense, and even the special teams unit, I'll be breaking down the key players and their roles, while also offering my personal commentary and opinions.
Offense
Quarterback
Jalen Hurts is the clear starter, but the Eagles are expecting more from him as a passer this season. I think this is an exciting development, as Hurts has the potential to become a true franchise quarterback. Andy Dalton and Cole Payton will likely fill the backup roles, but I'm curious to see if Payton can make an impact as a rookie. Personally, I think he has the potential to be a Tush Push specialist, but he might not make the roster. It's a tough call, and I'd love to see him succeed.
Running Back
Saquon Barkley is a proven talent, and I expect him to bounce back after a disappointing 2025 season. Tank Bigsby and Will Shipley will likely fill the remaining spots, with the coaching staff favoring Shipley for his blocking and special teams skills. I'm intrigued by the idea of a fourth running back, but I think the Eagles could keep such a player on the practice squad instead. It's a strategic move, and I appreciate the team's foresight.
Wide Receiver
DeVonta Smith is ready to take over as WR1, and I'm excited to see him shine. Makai Lemon and Dontayvion Wicks will likely compete for the remaining spots, with Lemon having the potential to be a serious contributor. I'm cautiously optimistic about his rookie season, and I think he could surprise many. Hollywood Brown and Darius Cooper will provide depth and special teams value, and I'm intrigued by the idea of Cooper as a dirty work guy.
Tight End
Dallas Goedert is a capable pass-catcher, but his blocking abilities are still a question mark. Eli Stowers and Johnny Mundt will likely fill the remaining spots, with Mundt being the best blocking tight end. Cameron Latu can contribute on special teams, and I'm curious to see if Grant Calcaterra can make an impact. Undrafted rookie free agent Dae'Quan Wright has the potential to be this year's Darius Cooper, and I'd love to see him succeed.
Offensive Line
Lane Johnson is a veteran presence, and I expect him to perform well when healthy. Jordan Mailata and Fred Johnson will likely fill the swing tackle roles, with Markel Bell at the other spot. Cameron Williams showed promise as a rookie, and I think the Eagles are willing to give him another chance. The interior offensive line positions are up for grabs, with Landon Dickerson and Tyler Steen competing for spots. I'm intrigued by the idea of Drew Kendall as the top backup, and I think Lampkin could be a surprise package.
Defense
Edge Defender
Jonathan Greenard is a talented pass rusher, and I expect him to shine. Jalyx Hunt has star potential, and I'm curious to see if he can reach his full potential this season. Nolan Smith is looking to bounce back from an injury-riddled 2025, and Arnold Ebiketie will play a rotational role. Brandon Graham is a veteran presence, and I appreciate his versatility and locker room presence.
Defensive Tackle
Jalen Carter should be motivated to return to form and earn a contract extension. Jordan Davis is a proven talent, and I expect him to continue his strong play. Moro Ojomo is entering a contract year, and I think he's only getting better. Ty Robinson needs to prove himself, and I'm intrigued by the idea of Vic Fangio favoring Byron Young.
Linebacker
Zack Baun is a proven talent, and I expect him to shine. Jihaad Campbell will likely replace Nakobe Dean in the starting lineup, and I'm curious to see how he performs. Jeremiah Trotter Jr. is a quality backup, and I think Smael Mondon Jr. showed promise as a rookie. Chance Campbell is a name to watch, and I'd love to see him succeed.
Cornerback
Quinyon Mitchell and Cooper DeJean are a dynamic duo, and I expect them to make first-team All-Pro for the second season in a row. Riq Woolen has tantalizing upside, and I'm intrigued by the idea of Kelee Ringo as a special teams value. Brandon Johnson can provide depth at nickel corner, and I'm curious to see if Jonathan Jones can make a comeback.
Safety
Andrew Mukuba needs to make a leap from Year 1 to Year 2, and I'm curious to see how he performs. Marcus Epps will likely start, but I think Michael Carter II can push for a starting role. Cole Wisniewski has the best chance of any Day 3 Eagles draft pick to see meaningful snaps, and I'm intrigued by the idea of J.T. Gray as an All-Pro special teamer.
Special Teams
Kicker
Jake Elliott has been a reliable kicker, but I think it's possible this is his last season with the Eagles. I'm curious to see if the team finds a replacement.
Punter
Braden Mann is a solid punter, and I expect him to perform well.
Long Snapper
Jacob Bobenmoyer is the current long snapper, but I'm curious to see if the team signs a veteran down the road. Rocco Underwood is an undrafted rookie free agent, and I'm intrigued by the idea of finding a reliable long snapper.
Injury Designations
It's currently unclear if anyone is in jeopardy of beginning the season on the reserve/physically unable to perform (PUP) or the reserve/non-football injury (NFI) lists. Uar Bernard is on the injured reserve list, and I think the Eagles will use the 'phantom IR' maneuver to prevent him from being exposed to waivers.
Practice Squad
The Eagles have a strong practice squad, with players like Dameon Pierce, Elijah Moore, and Britain Covey. I'm intrigued by the idea of these players making an impact on the roster, and I'd love to see them succeed.
