The Philadelphia Eagles are reevaluating their draft priorities due to emerging challenges on their offensive line as concerns grow about the future availability of veteran right tackle Lane Johnson. With former offensive line coach Jeff Stoutland departing and both Johnson and Landon Dickerson weighing retirement after the 2025 season, the Eagles face uncertainty in one of their most crucial units. This has led the team to pivot from targeting skill position players to urgently addressing line depth.
Mock Drafts Suggest First-Round Pick Could Strengthen the Line
Recent mock drafts, including one by Bleacher Report, have the Eagles selecting offensive lineman Kadyn Proctor with the 23rd overall pick in the first round. Proctor, a standout from Alabama, was once projected as a potential top-10 pick entering the 2025 season. Although he experienced a slow start that year, his performance improved substantially in the latter half, showcasing his potential as a dominant blocker despite still being labeled a developmental project.
In the context of the Eagles’ current roster, where three starting spots on the offensive line remain strong, analysts believe Proctor would likely begin as a right guard. His experience as a tackle also offers the Eagles valuable flexibility, particularly as an insurance policy if Lane Johnson retires sooner than expected.
Kadyn Proctor’s College Achievements Highlight His Potential Impact
During his collegiate career, Proctor earned significant recognition, including consensus All-American honors and a first-team All-SEC selection in 2025. He also made second-team All-SEC in 2024 and was a freshman All-American in 2023. These accolades reflect his capability and suggest that he could become a key contributor for the Eagles’ offensive line if nurtured properly.
Depth Concerns and Development Plans for the Eagles’ Offensive Front
Despite Tyler Steen delivering a respectable performance at right guard in 2025—receiving a Pro Football Focus grade of 71.6 and ranking 17th among 81 guards—there remains a need for fresh talent to secure the position long term. Proctor’s versatility between tackle and guard positions may not only provide immediate help but could also safeguard the unit against unforeseen retirements, including potentially that of Johnson.
The Eagles find themselves navigating a delicate period with key personnel questions looming, but moving decisively in the draft to reinforce the offensive line could stabilize their front five. Securing Proctor or a similar lineman in the early rounds may prove critical for maintaining offensive productivity and protecting the quarterback’s blind side in coming seasons.
