Why Philadelphia Eagles Should Still Target OT in NFL Draft Despite Recent Extension

Even after the re-signing of Jordan Mailata, the Eagles should address the depth at tackle in the 2024 NFL Draft as early as possible.

By Nick Faria

Oct 8, 2022; Stanford, California, USA; Oregon State Beavers offensive lineman Taliese Fuaga (75).
Oct 8, 2022; Stanford, California, USA; Oregon State Beavers offensive lineman Taliese Fuaga (75). / Darren Yamashita-USA TODAY Sports

Jordan Mailata's three-year extension with the Philadelphia Eagles could lead some to believe the organization shouldn't be worried about the tackle position going into the 2024 NFL Draft.

Those people couldn't be more wrong, though.

Dec 31, 2023; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Philadelphia Eagles offensive tackle Jordan Mailata.
Dec 31, 2023; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Philadelphia Eagles offensive tackle Jordan Mailata. / Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports

Mailata may be 27 years old, but his right tackle counterpart, Lane Johnson is entering the final few years of his NFL career. After the 2023 season, Johnson stated that he would like to play for another two years. That means it would be smart to have the Eagles address his position as soon as possible - just like they have done with former All-Pro center Jason Kelce.

Kelce had previously hand-picked his replacement - Cam Jurgens - two years ago. Philadelphia would be smart to follow a similar path with Johnson.

Luckily for the organization, the 2024 draft class of tackles is among the best in recent memory. Late-round first round picks could become All-Pro talents, especially under proper coaching. With Jeff Stoutland still at the helm of the offensive line, it's fair to assume any prospect selected in the first round will be a perfect fit for the organization.

The only question will be which players would fit better with what the organization is looking for.

Prospects like Orgeon State's Taliese Fuaga, Washington's Troy Fautanu, and even Oklahoma's Tyler Guyton offer unique skill sets that the Eagles could find enticing. At the very least, the depth of the entire rookie class should be enough for the organization to feel comfortable with whoever is the draft pick.