As the reigning Super Bowl champions, the Philadelphia Eagles are in an enviable position heading into the 2025 NFL Draft. With a deep, talented roster and a well-established identity, the Eagles don’t have to worry about significant roster holes. However, they can continue to strengthen key areas with players who could contribute immediately and provide long-term stability. With an eye on keeping their defensive line dominant, enhancing their secondary, and adding depth along the offensive line, the Eagles have several potential first-round fits in the 2025 draft to further solidify their championship window.
Here’s a look at five prospects who could be great fits for the Eagles as they look to defend their title and keep their dominance in the NFC East and beyond.
Philadelphia Eagles Big Board: Potential First-Round Fits Including Defensive Line, Safety, and EDGE Help
Xavier Watts, S, Notre Dame
The Eagles have one of the best secondaries in the NFL, but adding a versatile, dynamic safety like Xavier Watts from Notre Dame would provide even more flexibility and depth to their defensive backfield. Watts is a physical safety with the ability to cover tight ends, running backs, and even wide receivers in certain situations. His ball-hawking ability and strong football IQ would be a welcome addition to a secondary that already excels in coverage. With the Eagles’ aggressive defensive scheme under defensive coordinator Jonathan Gannon, Watts could be used in a variety of ways to disrupt opposing offenses. Adding a talent like Watts could provide insurance for the future, as well as depth and versatility in the short term.
Kenneth Grant, DT, Michigan
The Eagles are known for their ferocious defensive line, and Michigan’s Kenneth Grant could be the perfect addition to continue that tradition. Grant is a powerful, athletic defensive tackle who is difficult to move off the ball and has the ability to penetrate the pocket. His massive frame and ability to clog running lanes would help the Eagles maintain their dominance in the trenches. Grant’s explosiveness and ability to collapse the pocket will complement their pass rushers, making him an ideal fit in a defensive scheme that prioritizes strong defensive line play. With Grant’s upside, the Eagles could further solidify their defensive front for years to come.
Walter Nolen, DT, Ole Miss
Walter Nolen from Ole Miss is another intriguing option for the Eagles, providing a different skill set compared to Kenneth Grant. Nolen has a rare blend of size, strength, and athleticism, allowing him to disrupt plays both in the backfield and at the line of scrimmage. His ability to play multiple positions along the defensive line would add flexibility and depth to an already-stacked defensive front. The Eagles value versatile linemen, and Nolen’s ability to both rush the passer and stop the run could make him a key piece of their defense. With Nolen alongside established stars like Fletcher Cox, the Eagles would continue to be an elite unit in the trenches.
Grey Zabel, OL, North Dakota State
The Eagles’ offensive line is one of the best in the league, but adding a player like Grey Zabel from North Dakota State would bolster their depth and long-term prospects. Zabel is a powerful and technically sound offensive lineman who excels in both the run game and pass protection. His versatility to play both guard and tackle makes him a valuable asset for the Eagles, allowing them to build a deeper rotation and ensure their line stays strong through injuries and player development. As a developmental prospect, Zabel could step in when needed, but his potential to develop into a starting-caliber player could help maintain the Eagles’ dominance upfront for years to come.
James Pearce, EDGE, Tennessee
Even though the Eagles have a strong pass-rush unit, the addition of James Pearce from Tennessee could be the perfect piece to further bolster their already formidable defense. Pearce is an explosive edge rusher with a relentless motor, and his combination of speed, power, and technique allows him to wreak havoc in opposing backfields. Pairing Pearce with established edge rushers like Brandon Graham and Haason Reddick would give the Eagles one of the most dangerous pass-rushing units in the NFL. His ability to disrupt quarterbacks and create turnovers would complement their defense and give them even more flexibility in their schemes. Pearce could eventually develop into a key contributor in their rotation while continuing to learn from veteran pass rushers.
Final Thoughts
As the reigning Super Bowl champions, the Philadelphia Eagles are in the unique position of being able to select the best available talent in the 2025 NFL Draft to further solidify their status as a league powerhouse. While they are strong across the board, the addition of players like Xavier Watts, Kenneth Grant, Walter Nolen, Grey Zabel, and James Pearce could add even more depth and versatility to their already stacked roster.
Whether it’s improving their defensive line, adding a playmaking safety to their secondary, or bolstering the offensive line, the Eagles’ future looks even brighter with these potential first-round picks. By continuing to strengthen their roster with the right pieces, the Eagles will be poised to contend for another Super Bowl title for years to come.
