As they aim to maintain their dominance in the trenches, the reigning Super Bowl champion Philadelphia Eagles have arranged a top-30 pre-draft visit with Oregon offensive tackle Josh Conerly Jr. This move suggests strong interest in the promising lineman as a possible first-round pick. Holding the 32nd overall selection in the upcoming NFL Draft, the Eagles have long prioritized building their team through both the offensive and defensive lines. With free agency’s first wave concluded and no major contracts signed, the organization appears committed to strengthening its roster primarily through the draft over the next two years.
Conerly Jr. brings an intriguing athletic profile to the table. Originally from Seattle, he began his football career as a running back before switching to offensive tackle in his sophomore year of high school. This background adds to his appeal as a highly mobile and versatile lineman—qualities that align well with Philadelphia’s offensive system. Moreover, he could be an ideal candidate to eventually replace veteran right tackle Lane Johnson. The Eagles recently extended Johnson’s contract, ensuring he remains with the team through the 2027 season.
Although Johnson’s extension secures stability at the position for the foreseeable future, he is now 34 years old. Philadelphia’s decision to explore future options at tackle is a strategic move to prepare for his eventual departure. If the Eagles were to draft Conerly Jr., he would have the opportunity to learn under Johnson’s guidance, developing his skills before stepping into a starting role.
During his college career at Oregon, Conerly Jr. gained valuable experience, playing in 41 games over three seasons. He became a full-time starter in his final two years and logged 1,881 snaps at left tackle. His performance in the 2024 season earned him a solid 78.0 overall grade from Pro Football Focus, reinforcing his status as one of the top tackle prospects in this year’s draft class.
By hosting Conerly Jr. for a pre-draft visit, the Eagles are signaling their intent to reinforce their offensive line for both the present and the future. With an aging veteran in Johnson and an eye on long-term success, selecting a young, athletic tackle like Conerly Jr. could ensure Philadelphia remains a dominant force in the trenches for years to come.
Let me know if you’d like any refinements!
Leave a Reply