Philadelphia Eagles fans are praying that general manager Howie Roseman can find a hidden gem in the 2026 NFL Draft that can help the team get better right away.
Roseman has found those types of players in the past, with guys like Moro Ojomo stepping up and becoming contributors on the team. NFL Draft On SI's Justin Melo named one Day 3 prospect for each NFL team that he believes would be the best developmental fits for the team, and he liked Michigan edge rusher Jaishawn Barham as that guy.
"Philadelphia Eagles EDGE Nolan Smith is heading into a contract year. Michigan's Jaishawn Barham is an intriguing prospect with hybrid linebacker ability. Barham has drawn comparisons to Jalon Walker, who was the Atlanta Falcons' first-round pick last April. Raw explosiveness led to a career-high four sacks for the Wolverines in 2025."
Jaishawn Barham seems to be a good fit for the Eagles
The numbers won't blow fans away as Barham finished last year as a Wolverine with 32 tackles, four sacks, four pass deflections, and one forced fumble. He racked up 12 career sacks in four years with Michigan and Maryland.
Philly would be getting an athletic edge rusher who can help out in the rotation for at least the first year or two before he can look at being a starter on the team. He's got the speed and can drop back into coverage, which can help the Eagles in multiple ways on defense.
In the past, the Eagles have had good success with underrated Michigan defensive ends coming into the NFL. Just look at Brandon Graham and what he did in his 10+ year career with the Eagles and the impact he made as a leader and pass rusher.
Smith and Jalyx Hunt are going to be the top guys, but the Eagles would like other young edge rushers to develop on the team. They are trying to find a way to get a cheap version of now Carolina Panthers edge rusher Jaelan Phillips that can rush the passer with ease, but not break the bank.
Read more: Eagles have met multiple times with sleeper draft prospect too good to pass on
Give Barham time to develop and he could be an impact player on a defense that needs it.