Eagles hosted Nick Dawkins, cousin of Brian Dawkins on a draft visit

The Philadelphia Eagles have never been shy about planning, especially in the trenches. It's part of their identity. Build depth, protect the quarterback, and always have a backup plan ready before it's needed. That philosophy may be showing itself again as the NFL Draft approaches. This time, the name drawing attention carries a familiar ring. Former Penn State Nittany Lions center Nick Dawkins is one of three NCAA standouts who are meeting with the Eagles as part of a local pro day. He's the cousin of franchise legend Brian Dawkins, one of the most beloved figures in team history.

He says Buffalo Bills offensive tackle Dion Dawkins is a cousin, former Duke guard Andre Dawkins, too. He believes he’s related to former Philadelphia Eagles safety Brian Dawkins “somewhere down the line.”

And current Minnesota Timberwolves star Karl-Anthony Towns is another cousin.

“We play video games online together a lot — Fortnite, Madden … he’s a big Eagles fan, and we play (NBA) 2K,” Dawkins said. “And he gives me advice.

The connection alone makes this interesting. The fit makes it even more so.

In addition to being part of a great bloodline, Nick Dawkins gives the Eagles great insurance.

Dawkins isn't just a feel-good story tied to legacy. He's a legitimate prospect with production and character. A steady presence at Penn State, he earned All-Big Ten honorable mention honors and took home the 2024 Wuerffel Trophy, an award that speaks as much to leadership and character as it performs.

That combination tends to resonate in Philadelphia. More importantly, the timing makes sense. Cam Jurgens is locked in as the starter and remains one of the league's better young centers. A two-time Pro Bowler entering his fifth season, he's a cornerstone piece. Still, back injuries are tricky. See Tim Jernigan. They don't always follow a predictable path, and the Eagles have seen firsthand how quickly things can change along the offensive line.

Depth exists. Drew Kendall and Jake Majors are already in the mix, but neither brings the same blend of experience, upside, and intangibles that Dawkins offers. That's what makes this more than just another predraft visit. It's a reminder of how Philadelphia operates. They don't wait for problems to surface. They prepare for them. If that preparation happens to come with a familiar last name, that's even better.

This article originally appeared on Eagles Wire: Nick Dawkins met with the Eagles on a predraft visit