Eagles’ selection of Makai Lemon lands among 2026 NFL Draft’s elite

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Eagles’ selection of Makai Lemon lands among 2026 NFL Draft’s elite

Eagles’ selection of Makai Lemon lands among 2026 NFL Draft’s elite

One of ESPN's top analyst ranks Makai Lemon among the most impressive selections of the 2026 NFL Draft.

Eagles’ selection of Makai Lemon lands among 2026 NFL Draft’s elite

One of ESPN's top analyst ranks Makai Lemon among the most impressive selections of the 2026 NFL Draft.

The Philadelphia Eagles didn't just have a good draft—they had one of the best. That's no longer up for debate. Critics and analysts have been singing their praises since draft night, and now another major voice has added to the chorus. ESPN's Matt Miller recently released his rankings of the top 100 picks, steals, and fits from the 2026 NFL Draft, and the Eagles' selection of wide receiver Makai Lemon didn't just make the list—it nearly topped it.

Lemon landed at No. 4 overall, trailing only three selections across the entire draft. That kind of placement doesn't happen by accident. It reflects value, fit, and timing—three boxes the Eagles managed to check in one masterful move. "Lemon ranked as my top wide receiver in the class and was an exceptional value at No. 20," Miller wrote. "Especially because predraft rumors had him going to the Rams at No. 13 or the Jets at No. 16."

The board fell in Philadelphia's favor, and they acted decisively. Coming into draft night, Lemon was widely viewed as one of the top receivers available—some believed he wouldn't make it out of the top 15. But when he hung around longer than expected, the Eagles didn't wait to find out. They made a shrewd trade up to jump the Steelers, who were on the phone telling Lemon he would be their pick at No. 21.

Now, Lemon arrives in Philadelphia with both expectations and opportunity. Paired with DeVonta Smith and catching passes from Jalen Hurts, he steps into a situation designed to maximize his skill set. His route-running, explosiveness, and ability to create separation give the Eagles another dangerous dimension offensively. There's also something fitting about his next chapter: Lemon will wear No. 9, a number passed along with the blessing of Nick Foles. In a city that values grit and precision, Lemon looks ready to make his mark.

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