Feb. 23, 2026, 10:03 a.m. ET

Truth be told, the Philadelphia Eagles don’t need to draft a defensive tackle early in 2026. That’s the luxury you earn when your roster already includes dominant young interior forces like Jalen Carter and Jordan Davis. Plus, Carter’s rookie deal includes a fifth-year option. That gives the front office financial flexibility as they plan future extensions for both cornerstone linemen.

Still, if there’s one thing we’ve learned about this organization, it’s that perceived strength never stops them from investing in the trenches. Depth on the defensive line isn’t a luxury in Philadelphia. It’s a doctrine and an obvious part of their business model.

Injuries happen. Rotations matter, and when the playoffs arrive, fresh bodies up front often decide who advances. Let’s say the Eagles do what we expect and invest draft capital elsewhere early. That could mean early rounds are dedicated to a Lane Johnson succession plan, a tight end, and maybe another outside cornerback.

That means some of the best defensive tackle prospects figure to already be off the board. Guys like Peter Woods, Caleb Banks, Kayden McDonald, Lee Hunter, L.T. Overton, Darrell Jackson Jr., Gracen Halton, Chris McClellan, Domonique Orange, and DeMonte Capehart come to mind.

Let’s assume we’re right and they have all been drafted when Philadelphia chooses to add some positional insurance. Here are a few guys we’d assume might be available on Day three that tickle the Eagles’ fancy.

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Say it ain’t so! Another prospect from the Bulldogs? The way Jordan Davis and Jalen Carter have developed, we’re not really opposed to the idea.

Georgia defensive linemen arrive NFL-ready from a technique standpoint. Miller brings power at the point of attack and positional discipline. As you’re aware, those are traits that translate well into Philadelphia’s rotation-heavy front.

Cameron Ball offers intriguing length and raw tools. He’s the type of prospect defensive line coach development programs love. He has moldable traits with early rotational potential.

Zane Durant has a quick first step. That truly stands out. He projects as a penetrating interior rusher who could contribute in sub-packages while adding pass-rush juice behind Carter.

Tim Keenan fits the Eagles’ historical profile for interior depth. He’s stout against the run, technically sound, and battle-tested against elite SEC competition. Place an asterisk by his name if you’re keeping score here

Rayshaun Benny brings both physicality and leverage. His ability to occupy blockers would allow linebackers to flow freely. That’s something Philadelphia prioritizes schematically.

Jeffrey M’Ba is a traits projection. He has the size, movement skills, and upside make him a developmental candidate worth investing in late. He’s battle-tested, having also played at Auburn and Purdue. He’s seen a few defensive schemes.

In closing:

The reality is simple. You can never have too many good defensive linemen in Philadelphia. Paying Carter and Davis will be a priority, but maintaining a pipeline behind them is just as critical.

If the Eagles add one of these late-round tackles, it won’t be about filling a hole. It’ll be about protecting the future of the league’s most important position group and, maybe, finding someone to fill in for Moro Ojomo when he is offered his payday.