The NFL Combine is upon us, and the Philadelphia Eagles are gearing up to make some pivotal decisions for the 2026 NFL Draft. With needs spanning edge rusher, offensive line, cornerback, safety, and wide receiver, Philly has a lot on its plate. However, there's a new player in the mix that might just shake things up for the Eagles on Day 2 of the draft.
Sources have revealed that the Eagles, along with the Green Bay Packers, have shown interest in LSU linebacker Harold Perkins Jr. This meeting before the combine workouts signals a potential shift in draft strategy for Philadelphia.
Perkins boasts an impressive track record at LSU, earning All-SEC honors three times. Last season, he showcased his versatility with 55 tackles, four sacks, three interceptions, three pass deflections, a forced fumble, and a fumble recovery. It's this kind of adaptability that Eagles defensive coordinator Vic Fangio covets, as Perkins can excel in pass coverage, run defense, and quarterback pressure.
The Eagles might see Perkins as a player similar to Jihaad Campbell, whom they drafted last year for his ability to play both inside linebacker and edge rusher. This interest in Perkins could also hint at a potential shift away from Nakobe Dean, who is currently a free agent expressing interest in returning to Philadelphia. However, the Eagles seem more focused on retaining Jaelan Phillips and Reed Blankenship.
If the Eagles decide to pick Perkins in the second or third round, he would likely join a linebacker rotation featuring Zack Baun and Campbell as starters, with Jeremiah Trotter Jr. and Perkins providing depth. While there are numerous positions to address in the draft, having two third-round picks gives the Eagles the flexibility to consider a linebacker like Perkins. It’s clear he’s on their radar this offseason, and his selection could be a strategic move for the team's future.