The only headline that continues to dominate the Philadelphia Eagles' offseason and annoy the fan base is what will happen with wide receiver A.J. Brown and whether he will be traded.
All signs seem to point towards a trade happening, which could lead the Eagles to having to find his replacement via the 2026 NFL Draft. NFL.com draft analyst Chad Reuter shared his latest mock draft, where he has the Eagles taking USC wide receiver Makai Lemon with the 23rd overall pick.
"Lemon is pegged as a slot receiver, but he can play outside just fine when DeVonta Smith works inside. This pick becomes even more important if A.J. Brown is dealt."
Eagles could be in line to select Makai Lemon in the NFL Draft
Lemon had a monster 2025 season, catching 79 passes for 1,156 yards and 11 touchdowns, setting career highs in all three categories. His spectacular year led to his being named an All-American and an All-Big Ten selection.
At least for the moment, the Eagles have some really solid options at wide receiver, even if Brown gets traded. DeVonta Smith appears to be ready to become a number one receiver in the offense, and the newest addition, Marquise "Hollywood" Brown, is the speed demon this offense has needed over the years.
Lemon would be able to come in and help out right away for the Eagles, whether A.J. Brown is there or not. If Brown is going to get traded, Eagles fans would be okay with the Lemon pick in the first round, but if Brown stays, then an edge rusher or offensive tackle would make more sense with that selection.
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The Eagles would benefit from having Lemon join the team, and he could help them not miss a beat as they have Super Bowl aspirations in 2026.