The Philadelphia Eagles are gearing up for the 2026 NFL Draft, and while rumors swirl around A.J. Brown, there's a strong case for focusing on bolstering their pass rush. Howie Roseman, known for his strategic draft moves, might just zero in on a top-tier edge rusher to address an immediate need.
Two names catching the Eagles' eye are Texas A&M's Cashius Howell and Miami's Akheem Mesidor. These two prospects couldn't be more different in style, yet each brings something unique to the table.
Howell, an undersized yet electrifying speed rusher, might not be the classic edge-setter, but his quickness is off the charts. On the other hand, Mesidor offers a more traditional approach with his size and hand-in-the-dirt experience, making him a formidable presence on the line.
Despite their contrasting skills, either Howell or Mesidor could quickly become a cornerstone for Philadelphia's defense. Howell, despite his shorter arm length-a stat that might make some executives pause-brings an explosive edge rush that could invigorate the Eagles' defensive line. His 11.5 sacks last season showcase his ability to outmaneuver some of the best tackles in the SEC.
Mesidor, meanwhile, emerged as a force in his final college season, racking up 12.5 sacks and even outshining his teammate Rueben Bain Jr., a projected Top 10 pick. While his fit in Philly's speed-oriented scheme might raise questions, his ability to shore up the run defense could be invaluable, providing much-needed support to interior linemen like Jordan Davis and Jalen Carter.
As the draft approaches, the Eagles hold the 23rd pick, and it's likely that either Howell or Mesidor could be available. Both come with their own set of challenges, but they also offer distinct advantages that could be harnessed in Vic Fangio's defensive setup. Whether it's Howell's lightning-fast rush or Mesidor's robust edge-setting capabilities, Philadelphia has intriguing options to consider as they look to reinforce their defense for the upcoming season.