Penn State prospect Drew Shelton brings a very specialized - and highly coveted - attribute to the gridiron: He's a swing tackle, and the Philadelphia Eagles could use one.
Philly, well-known for targeting versatile linemen emerging from the college ranks, may just have a sizeable need at swing tackle with the uncertainty surrounding current free agent Fred Johnson. Per Johnny McGonigal, the Eagles are now set to host Shelton for a visit, too.
"The Eagles will host OT and Downingtown native Drew Shelton for a pre-draft local visit. Shelton is an interesting prospect in the middle rounds. Athletic, two-year starter. Eagles will be looking for a Lane Johnson successor at RT."
Eagles again could be targeting Penn State player
That second statement provided by McGonical also carries significant weight. Not only would Shelton immediately arrive as a swing tackle providing key depth, but he would also vie for the role of developing behind Lane Johnson for eventual starting right tackle duties.
As a possible day two or even day three solution, the Pennsylvania native Shelton is certainly on the Eagles' radar, and versatility isn't the only strength this Nittany Lion wields on gamedays. A former top-100 recruit in the freshman class, Shelton showcased his skillset rotating between both tackle spots in 2023 and 2024, before anchoring the left side for 12 games in 2025. He has impressive agility and fluidity for a 6-foot-5, 313-pound athlete, and functions at a high level in a zone-heavy blocking scheme, which of course correlates with new offensive coordinator Sean Mannion's vision.
Shelton's scheduled meeting with Philadelphia adds another Nittany Lion offensive lineman to the list, as teammate Olaivavega Ioane is slated for a 30 visit with the team.
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The hype surrounding Ioane is well-deserved, but don't discount the considerable skill set that the less-heralded but consistent, versatile Shelton offers to his future NFL employer. Eagles general manager Howie Roseman is clearly interested in the trench talent coming out of Penn State, and with additional bodies up front considered a priority this coming April, help from Happy Valley could soon be en route to Philadelphia.