As we gear up for the excitement of the 2025 NFL Draft, it’s time to dive into a final look at what the Philadelphia Eagles might do. With eight picks in total this year, including four in the fifth round, there’s plenty of room for strategic moves that could impact the team’s future.
Round 1, Pick 32: Walter Nolen, iDL, Ole Miss (6’4″, 296 lbs)
Let’s cut to the chase: Walter Nolen is the kind of talent that under normal circumstances wouldn’t be available at pick 32. His combination of power and quickness is undeniably enticing, and while some early collegiate production was a bit underwhelming, Nolen made a strong case for himself in 2024 as a disruptive force. This is a player with potential seen when he was once the top high school recruit in the nation. In the Eagles’ scheme, teaming him up with Jalen Carter could create a fearsome interior duo that opposing offensive lines would struggle to handle.
The big question, though, is whether character concerns will allow him to slip to the Eagles. Philadelphia did bring Nolen in for a pre-draft visit, which could be a sign they’re interested, assuming they feel confident about his off-field presence. If they’re sold, look for potential movement up the draft board to nab this promising prospect.
Round 2, Pick 64: Nic Scourton, EDGE, Texas A&M (6’3″, 257 lbs)
Now, do we really expect Scourton to be there at 64? The smart money says it’s a stretch. He’s been ranked as one of the top edge rushers across major draft analysts’ boards. If the stars align and he drops, however, he would represent a major steal for the Eagles. Scourton’s agility and effectiveness with pass-rushing moves, particularly his spins, make him a versatile player who can contribute both on the edge and in interior roles during obvious passing situations.
What makes him even more appealing is his age; he’s among the youngest players in the draft. Given Philadelphia’s penchant for drafting young prospects, it’s entirely plausible he could develop behind established players like Nolan Smith and Azeez Ojulari, allowing him to find his footing in the NFL without overwhelming pressure.
Round 3, Pick 96: Jacob Parrish, CB, Kansas State (5’10”, 191 lbs)
Parrish is a bit of a smaller corner, but don’t let his height fool you; he brings 4.35 speed to the table, along with versatility to play both inside and outside. His ball skills were evident last season with four interceptions and nine pass breakups. While he might face challenges in the run game and against bigger receivers, his feisty demeanor could provide valuable depth to the Eagles’ secondary.
Parrish could develop into a starter down the line, especially if Kelee Ringo doesn’t progress as hoped or departs in free agency. With the Eagles looking to build a strong secondary, he might just be the right fit.
Round 4, Pick 134: Malachi Moore, DB, Alabama (5’11”, 196 lbs)
Moore is a safety/slot corner hybrid, having excelled in Alabama’s defense as the “star” position player. Smart and physical, he has the ability to compete for a starting safety spot or enhance the Eagles’ depth in the defensive backfield. Given recent attrition in the secondary, like the loss of Darius Slay and C.J. Gardner-Johnson, bolstering depth through multiple selections is definitely on the table.
Could the Eagles double-dip at defensive back in the early rounds? It’s certainly a possibility, as they will want to shore up a position that has faced challenges.
Round 5, Pick 161: Traded to the Raiders for TE Michael Mayer
Mayer’s trade to the Eagles could be a savvy move for a team needing tight end depth. As a second-round pick originally, Mayer has been somewhat overshadowed after the Raiders drafted a top prospect in his position. With average production in his early career, he’s looking for a fresh start, and the Eagles could provide that opportunity—especially if Dallas Goedert is on the way out. Mayer brings toughness after the catch and blocking ability, making him a solid addition for the team.
Round 5, Pick 164: Jalen Travis, OT, Iowa State (6’8″, 339 lbs)
Travis has demonstrated impressive athleticism, clocking a 5.14 in the 40-yard dash at the Combine and jumping 35 inches vertically. His ability to execute complicated reach blocks and pull effectively at his size is no small feat. With Jeff Stoutland’s track record for developing offensive linemen, this is a player who might benefit greatly from the Eagles’ coaching staff.
Round 5, Pick 165: Dont’e Thornton Jr., WR, Tennessee
Thornton brings game-breaking speed to the table with a 4.30 mark, coupled with the ability to make big plays downfield. His 21.9 yards per catch throughout college paints a picture of a player who can stretch the field. In the Eagles’ offense, where A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith command attention, having a player like Thornton to take the top off can keep defenses honest, allowing the offense to operate more effectively.
Round 5, Pick 168: Joshua Gray, iOL, Oregon State (6’5″, 299 lbs)
Gray’s versatility shines through as he has experience playing both guard and tackle. With 56 starts under his belt, he brings a reliability that teams covet in offensive linemen. His recent shift to guard seems to fit his pro prospects better, and as the Eagles prioritize versatile linemen, Gray might just be a long-term addition for a team looking to solidify its front.
As the draft unfolds, fans can expect the Eagles to maintain their strategic approach, aiming to bolster various positions that will set them up for success in the coming seasons. The draft’s complexity is part of what makes it thrilling, and Philadelphia appears poised to seize these opportunities.
