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Ranking the positions most likely to be picked 23rd overall
TL;DR
As the NFL Draft approaches, the No. 23 overall pick is expected to focus on premium positions like defensive linemen, offensive linemen, or cornerbacks. This pick often balances team needs with long-term roster construction.
As the NFL Draft approaches, every slot carries its own identity—and the No. 23 overall pick has developed a fascinating track record. Positioned in the latter half of Round 1, it often serves as a pivot point where teams balance value, need, and long-term roster construction.
Historically, this range has produced a mix of impact starters and developmental prospects, with certain positions appearing more frequently than others. By examining recent trends and roster-building philosophies, we can better understand which positions are most likely to come off the board at No. 23 and why.
The No. 23 overall pick for Philadelphia is all about flexibility. Most teams selecting in this range are often good enough to avoid major roster holes but are still looking to add impact talent, making positional value a key driver.
As the 2026 NFL Draft unfolds, expect the trends to hold. Whether it's a defensive lineman, offensive lineman, or cornerback, history suggests the selection will likely come from a premium position that aligns with both value and long-term roster building.
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After the unit was decimated in 2025, the Eagles will begin restocking their offensive line. The Eagles haven't drafted an offensive lineman in the first round since 2019, and Lane Johnson is going to turn 36 next month, signaling the need for his replacement. While Vega Ioane is a true offensive guard, Spencer Fano and Kadyn Proctor are players who could start their careers at offensive guard. Other players to watch are Monroe Freeling from Georgia, Blake Miller from Clemson, Max Iheanachor from Arizona State, and Caleb Lomu from Utah.
Edge Rusher
The Eagles signed Arnold Ebiketie and Joe Tryon-Shoyinka to one-year deals, while Nolan Smith and Jalyx Hunt are the starters. Still, Edge rusher is the position Roseman has drafted most often in the first round, and he could potentially add to that in 2026. The options at No. 23 include Keldric Faulk, Zion Young, Akheem Mesidor, Malachi Lawrence, and Cashius Howell.
Safety
Reed Blankenship has departed for Houston, while the Eagles are bringing back Drew Mukuba for his second NFL season in 2026. For now, the second safety spot will be held by Marcus Epps or Michael Carter II. The Eagles have never drafted a safety in the first round, and Mukuba was their first second-round safety selected in over a decade. Oregon's Dillon Thineman and Toledo's Emmanuel McNeil-Warren are players to watch.
Wide receiver
Philadelphia has added three wide receivers since the off-season began, making it unlikely they'll make a splash pick on Jordyn Tyson, Denzel Boston, or Omar Cooper Jr.
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Dallas Goedert returned on a one-year deal, and Philadelphia will add talent to the position. It just seems relatively unlikely that it's going to come in the first round of the draft. Kenyon Sadiq would be the dream pick, while Eli Stowers would be a dream scenario as well.
This article originally appeared on Eagles Wire: NFL Draft: Ranking positions most likely picked at No. 23 overall
Q&A
What positions are most likely to be picked 23rd overall in the NFL Draft?
The positions most likely to be selected 23rd overall include defensive linemen, offensive linemen, and cornerbacks.
Why is the No. 23 overall pick significant in the NFL Draft?
The No. 23 overall pick is significant because it often serves as a pivot point for teams to balance value and roster needs, typically yielding impact starters or developmental prospects.
How does the history of the 23rd pick influence current NFL Draft strategies?
The history of the 23rd pick influences current strategies by highlighting trends in positional value, guiding teams to select players that align with both immediate needs and long-term roster goals.
