The Philadelphia Eagles made several additions to the roster during the 2026 NFL Draft, but players will have different impacts, whether that's in 2026 or down the line. The Eagles drafted Makai Lemon and Eli Stowers with their first two picks, but it was the selection in the third round that is going under the radar.
With the No. 68 overall pick, Philadelphia selected Miami OT Markel Bell. And while he's not being asked to start in 2026, last season showed how important reliable tackle depth is. Bell fills that role with ease, but he could also be a starter down the line.
Markel Bell Has Flown Under the Radar with Eagles
Lane Johnson thought about retiring this offseason before deciding to return. Of course, Philadelphia is thrilled to have its All-Pro back, but the clock is ticking on his playing career, making the selection of Bell that much more important.
The Eagles like physically imposing tackles, and Bell fits the bill. He's listed at 6'9" and weighs 346 pounds. During the 2025 season with the Hurricanes, he allowed no sacks and was reliable, logging 1,034 offensive snaps. Despite being this big, he is remarkably nimble and light on his feet.
He uses his long arms to keep defenders at bay and has all the tools needed to be an NFL starter. Yet the best part is that he can focus on his development while providing the Eagles with a high-end backup. Even though he played left tackle in college, Philadelphia will be sure that he can line up on both sides.
The most obvious fill-in comes on the right side, as Johnson could be playing in his final season for the Eagles. The idea of having Bell waiting in the wings is massive and shows how Philadelphia typically operates. And that's finding a replacement a year early instead of a year late.
Fred Johnson was asked to start eight games in 2025, and his results were a mixed bag. On Pro Football Focus, he had an overall grade of 58.6 (69th among 89 graded tackles), a pass-blocking grade of 64.2 (57th among 89 graded tackles), and a run-blocking grade of 55.5 (70th among 89 graded tackles). He also committed five penalties and allowed 17 pressures.
The Eagles want better protection up front if one of their tackles goes down with an injury, and it appears Bell will do that. Not only can he be a high-end backup in 2026, but he also has the ability to develop into a long-term starter for this team.
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