The Philadelphia Eagles are always looking to the future during the NFL Draft. Howie Roseman could look to a developmental SEC offensive tackle to replace Lane Johnson in the first round this year.

Mock drafts never know quite what to do for the Philadelphia Eagles in any year. 2026 is no different. Howie Roseman’s team could go in a plethora of directions, particularly if they plan to trade A.J. Brown sometime after the draft.

Replacing a franchise legend may be in the cards for Roseman and head coach Nick Sirianni.

Eagles choose Lane Johnson replacement in latest mock draft

Georgia offensive tackle Monroe Freeling was the pick at 23rd overall for the Eagles in the latest first-round mock draft from A to Z Sports.

“The Birds have shown some interest in these developmental, physical tackles. Freeling fits the profile they have liked in the past and can be the incumbent replacement for Lane Johnson after 2026.” – A to Z Sports

Freeling is the third-ranked OT in this year’s class, according to NFL Draft analyst Kyle Crabbs. With a late first-round grade, this selection by Philly lines up both need and value when it comes to the Georgia Bulldogs prospect.

“Freeling will check all the stereotypical boxes for a left tackle. He's got experience on the right side, too. But as a one-year full-time starter, his forecast calls for plenty of projection. He's essentially a 90th percentile athlete for offensive tackles across the board but his stunning size, length, and twitch do come with some costs. He's got a high center of gravity that requires vigilance in both the run game and when mirroring in protection. It tests his punch placement at times, too - which can create some frustrating misses at the point of attack. But one thing is for certain: he's on the fast track. Freeling has played more and more over his three seasons and took massive strides in 2025.” — Crabbs

Freeling is a ceiling play in the first round. His incredible size and athleticism will be tempting for Philly if he lasts until the back half of round one.

The Eagles have been connected to many offensive tackles expected to go early in this year’s draft, and Freeling is one who many think could go in the top 20. With that, the Birds could be forced to make a move up via trade. For a player who may not have a role as a rookie, that is a bit of a risk.

On the flip-side, 2026 may be the swan song season for Lane Johnson. He’s had an unbelievable career for the Eagles and will be a future Hall of Fame member. Johnson did consider retirement early this offseason and dealt with multiple injuries in 2025, though.