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Eagles Draft Giant: Miami's Bell Towers Over Competition
25 Apr
Summary
- Eagles draft Miami tackle Markel Bell at 68th pick.
- Bell, a 6-9, 346-pound tackle, did not allow a sack in 2025.
- Bell is seen as a potential successor for Eagles' Lane Johnson.
The Philadelphia Eagles significantly bolstered their offensive line by drafting Miami tackle Markel Bell with the 68th pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. Bell, a towering presence at 6-9 and 346 pounds, was a starter for one-and-a-half seasons with the Hurricanes, contributing to their run to the 2025 national title game.
Bell's impressive physical attributes and durability are key highlights; he played the fifth-most offensive snaps in the FBS in 2025 and notably did not allow a single sack during that season. His selection is viewed as a strategic move by the Eagles to plan for the eventual succession of veteran tackle Lane Johnson, who will turn 36 during his 14th season and recently missed games due to injury.
Bell joins a deep tackle group that includes established players like Lane Johnson and Jordan Mailata, along with depth options. The Eagles chose Bell over other offensive linemen and potential defensive backs, signaling their priority to address the offensive line's future needs in this draft.
