The Philadelphia Eagles are making waves in the NFL draft world, and according to ESPN, their 2026 class is already earning high praise. ESPN ranked two of the Eagles' picks among the top 27 selections in the entire draft, highlighting the team's savvy and forward-thinking approach.

At No. 20 overall, the Eagles snagged wide receiver Makai Lemon, who ESPN ranked as the No. 8 prospect overall and the top receiver in the class. That's exceptional value for a late first-round pick. The drama only adds to the story: the Eagles traded up to jump the Pittsburgh Steelers, who were reportedly on the phone with Lemon telling him he'd be their pick at No. 21. It's draft-day chess at its finest. Lemon is expected to be a dynamic running mate for DeVonta Smith, especially with A.J. Brown's future in Philadelphia uncertain after June 1. Adding a premier wideout wasn't expected, but it turned out to be one of the draft's best moves.

Then, in the second round at pick No. 54, the Eagles landed tight end Eli Stowers. ESPN ranked him No. 58 overall, making this a near-perfect value pick. Stowers is a physical freak: he set combine records with a 45½-inch vertical and an 11-3 broad jump, while running a 4.51 40-yard dash at 6-foot-4 and 251 pounds. He's a seam-stretching threat who maximizes yards after the catch. With Dallas Goedert turning 31 and his contract expiring after this season, Stowers is the clear heir apparent. By adding Lemon and Stowers in back-to-back rounds, Philadelphia went all-in on offense—a strategy that should pay off handsomely for quarterback Jalen Hurts.

Meanwhile, the rookies are already settling in. Makai Lemon spoke to reporters about getting Nick Foles' blessing to wear No. 9 and his excitement to learn from DeVonta Smith. He admitted to taking a moment each night before falling asleep to appreciate the surreal experience of realizing his NFL dream. For Eagles fans, it's a dream that looks like it's just getting started.