Mel Kiper Jr.'s first 2024 NFL mock draft for Eagles at No. 22

The Philadelphia Eagles landed two Georgia defensive players in the first round of the 2023 NFL Draft and might have to look on that side of the ball again. The Eagles have issues at corner, safety, and linebacker and might need more depth on their defensive line.

However, the Eagles do have some holes on the offensive side of the ball with age and the potential retirement of Jason Kelce becoming an issue as well.

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That leaves Eagles general manager Howie Roseman with a decision to make with pick No. 22.

ESPN’s Mel Kiper Jr. believes that Rosemam will stick to what he knows and add to the offensive line, taking Oregon State tackle Taliese Fuaga, according to his first mock draft of 2024.

The Eagles were a disaster at the end of the season, and they have several roster questions to answer this offseason (with a long list of pending free agents). On defense, they have needs at cornerback and safety, and their pass rush was putrid down the stretch. On offense, their line is getting older -- right tackle Lane Johnson turns 34 in May -- and they'll have to replace star center Jason Kelce. Taking Fuaga is a way to add a top-tier talent and figure out the rest later.
Cam Jurgens, a second-rounder in 2022, probably would replace Kelce, which means the right guard spot would open up. Fuaga started 25 games at right tackle for the Beavers, but he could play inside as a rookie before ultimately replacing Johnson. He is a dominant run-blocker with powerful hands and strong lower body.

Remember the Eagles have two picks in round two and could look to add to the defensive side of the ball with those selections.

Adding to the offensive line might help the team in 2024, especially if Kelce does retire. With Kelce out, Cam Jurgens would move over to center and Fuaga could be a right-guard candidate until Lane Johnson's playing days are over.