In a league where immediate gratification is sought after by fans, the Philadelphia Eagles are currently developing a pair of high draft picks with whom patience is going to be paramount.
And although the early goings for both Makai Lemon and Eli Stowers have been checkered with struggles, the upside for both rookies remains undeniable.
Eagles' top two draft picks are just getting warmed up
After missing time with an injured hamstring, Lemon returned to practice last week and suited up for the team's preseason finale. Even though the results weren't up to par (three catches, three yards on five targets), Lemon's game tape from USC doesn't lie: the 2025 Belitnikoff winner is capable of massive production, even though his hamstring woes have no doubt seen him get off to a rocky start.
Folks need to tap the brakes on their frustration and remember he just returned to action. It's going to take time for him to ramp things up and become fully immersed in this Eagles offense. Lemon needs live practice reps with Jalen Hurts, and now that he's finally back to full health, his development and acclimation to the pro game can truly begin.
Meanwhile, Stowers has only played tight end for three seasons. The former quarterback transitioned to tight end in 2023 and truly broke out just last year at Vanderbilt. The athleticism he brings to the table is off the charts for the position, so Roseman and the scouting department are banking on that upside to pay dividends in due time. While blocking remains the biggest area in which Stowers must make strides, you can't teach speed and overall athleticism, which Stowers has in spades.
While immediate production is often demanded from high draft picks, Roseman selected this pair and has since made roster moves to help them develop without throwing them into the proverbial fire.
First, the wideout room remains deep, even without A.J. Brown. Roseman replenished the position all off-season long, as Dontayvion Wicks, Hollywood Brown, and Elijah Moore stand ready to complement returning star DeVonta Smith. In addition, Darius Cooper looks poised to continue his climb and make his mark this coming season. Production from Lemon will be a welcome relief when it arrives, but it is not essential early in the regular season.
For Stowers and the tight end unit, Johnny Mundt and E.J. Jenkins are on board behind starter Dallas Goedert. With the rookie tight end fighting thru his own hamstring issues, while still developing as a tight end - especially in the blocking phase - this is more of a long-term play by Roseman. This group has the depth to get the job done while the rookie continues to develop.
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Fans' early frustration is understandable, but injuries and overall development are integral parts of the game. Despite the collective desire to see both rookies light it up right away, patience is paramount for Roseman's top two selections this season.
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