The Philadelphia Eagles might not need to use their first-round pick to replace tight end Dallas Goedert, who is set to become a free agent soon. According to a former member of the team’s scouting staff, the best Dallas Goedert replacement draft option could emerge on Day 2, specifically in the second or third round of the 2026 NFL Draft.
With Goedert’s departure looming, the Eagles will look to reinforce the tight end position while balancing other roster priorities. NFL Network analyst Daniel Jeremiah recently suggested the Eagles may focus their first-round pick elsewhere, possibly on strengthening their offensive line instead.
Draft Strategy and Possible Positions of Focus
Jeremiah highlighted the Eagles’ multiple picks on Day 2, which include their own second-round and two third-round selections, one of which is a compensatory pick. He stated that selecting a tight end later in the draft is a viable path for Philadelphia.
To me, offensive line for the Eagles seems a little bit more likely as a place they could go,
Daniel Jeremiah said.
Targeted Tight End Prospect for Day 2 Selection
One tight end prospect catching attention for the Eagles is Max Klare from Ohio State. Jeremiah noted that while Klare’s production at Ohio State was less than expected due to a crowded offense, his earlier performances at Purdue showcased his potential.
A guy that I like in that range would be Max Klare from Ohio State,
Jeremiah said.
He transferred from Purdue this year and didn’t have the production I think he would have liked at Ohio State, but there are a lot of mouths to feed. I think when you go back and watch him at Purdue, you can see the ability he has.
Jeremiah compared Klare’s playing style to Detroit Lions tight end Sam LaPorta, praising his burst, smooth movement, and ball skills.
He’s a little more of a traditional guy,
Jeremiah added.
He reminded me a little bit of Sam LaPorta when I watched him, some of the burst, the fluidity and his ability to really go get the ball. That was someone I really liked in the second-round range.
Klare’s Strengths and Areas for Improvement
During his junior year, Klare recorded 43 receptions for 448 yards and two touchdowns in Ohio State’s offense led by Brian Hartline. The offense utilized tight ends in varied roles, including seam and crossing routes, emphasizing their role in creating mismatches for quarterback Julian Sayin.
Despite his receiving skills, Klare’s run blocking remains inconsistent, especially when matched against edge rushers. Ohio State’s frequent use of multiple tight end sets helped camouflage blocking weaknesses, yet this will need improvement in a professional system.
The Eagles’ new offensive coordinator, Sean Mannion, has experience with a Green Bay Packers version of the Shanahan offense, which heavily relies on tight ends for outside zone running plays. This scheme requires tight ends who can assist tackles in sealing the edge to support the running game.
Looking Ahead: Eagles’ Plans for Tight End Depth
The Eagles must address tight end depth soon, especially with three free agents at the position: Dallas Goedert, Grant Calcaterra, and Kyle Granson. One strategy could be to sign experienced free agents such as John FitzPatrick or Josh Whyle, both from the Packers, who would already be acquainted with Mannion’s system.
Either FitzPatrick or Whyle could serve as a secondary tight end in 12 personnel formations — featuring one running back and two tight ends — while Klare develops into a reliable run blocker and sharp route runner.
By targeting a Day 2 tight end like Klare and supplementing with experienced veterans, the Eagles aim to maintain offensive balance and sustain their competitiveness heading into the 2026 NFL season.
