NFL Mock Draft: Eagles Select ‘Top-Tier Talent’ at Offensive Tackle
Center Jason Kelce hasn't formally announced his retirement yet, but until the 36-year-old says that he isn't walking away, the Philadelphia Eagles have to begin to plan for life after the future Hall of Famer.
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To that end, ESPN's Mel Kiper Jr. released his first mock draft of the 2024 cycle this week, and projected that the Eagles -- likely to restructure their offensive line post-Kelce -- will take Oregon State offensive tackle Taliese Fuaga with the No. 22 overall pick.
"Taking Fuaga is a way to add a top-tier talent and figure out the rest later," Kiper wrote. "Cam Jurgens, a second-rounder in 2022, probably would replace Kelce, which means the right guard spot would open up. Fuaga started 25 games at right tackle for the Beavers, but he could play inside as a rookie before ultimately replacing Johnson. He is a dominant run-blocker with powerful hands and strong lower body."
Johnson is as dominant as ever. He was a Second-Team All-Pro selection in 2023. After the Eagles were eliminated by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the postseason, Johnson said that he believes he has "a few good years left." Like Kelce, Johnson will probably be given the chance to play as long as he wants, especially while he's still performing at a borderline Hall of Fame caliber.
At the same time, having someone who could be a potential successor to Johnson if he gets injured and/or declines quicker than expected probably wouldn't be a bad idea.
There's also the reality that offensive line coach Jeff Stoutland is 61 years old, and won't coach forever. Whoever comes after him almost certainly will be a downgrade. While he is still employed by the Eagles, having him develop as many linemen as possible would be smart.
And as far as 2024 is considered, the Eagles will seemingly have an opening at right guard. Cam Jurgens will presumably shift from right guard to his natural position of center, assuming Kelce does indeed retire. Fuaga is 6-foot-6, 334 pounds, and was a First-Team All-American at Oregon State. Taking him at No. 22, letting Stoutland mold him as a right guard and eventually having him kick out to right tackle to succeed Johnson doesn't sound like a bad strategy for general manager Howie Roseman.
