Many would argue that the Philadelphia Eagles had one of the best draft classes in 2026, with multiple players who could become starters.
Their first three selections, wide receiver Makai Lemon, tight end Eli Stowers, and offensive tackle Markel Bell, are seen as starters on offense in 2026 or 2027. They are building the foundation for what should be a very good offense in the future.
As for their Day 3 selections, while there are some intriguing options who could become stars in the future, one is not being brought up as often. Everyone loves the idea of Cole Payton being an eventual replacement for Jalen Hurts, but that's not the one the national media should be talking about.
Seventh-round pick Uar Bernard has the potential to be one of the greats
Among the three selections the Eagles had in the seventh round, they decided to select an NFL International Pathway player in defensive tackle Uar Bernard. He was a guy the Eagles were interested in back in early April after he put up some great numbers at his workout, coming in at 6-foot-4 and 306 pounds with only 6% body fat.
40-yard dash: 4.60 seconds
Vertical: 39”
Broad Jump: 10’6”
Bench: 31
Bernard is considered a big risk for the Eagles since he has never played organized football before in his life. He has spent the first month in the NFL learning the basics, so his incredible skills can be used effectively.
Philly is the perfect spot for Bernard as he gets to learn from one of the best defensive line coaches in the NFL, Clint Hurtt. It also helps that Bernard has some stars in front of him on the depth chart with two-time Pro Bowler Jalen Carter, Jordan Davis, and Moro Ojomo.
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Don't expect Bernard to play much, if at all, in his rookie season as the Eagles ease him into learning football. Eagles fans know this could work, as starting left tackle Jordan Mailata was in the same position as Bernard, and that turned out to be a great decision by the franchise. The hope is that Philly can get the same kind of results in Bernard and find what people should believe is the sleeper pick of the 2026 NFL Draft, and it really shouldn't be close.
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