Philadelphia, PA – April 17, 2025
In his annual pre-NFL Draft press conference, Philadelphia Eagles general manager Howie Roseman didn’t mince words.
“You never have 32 first-round grades on a draft board,” Roseman said. “And this year, we certainly don’t.”
Translation: With the Eagles currently holding the No. 32 overall pick, don’t be surprised if Philadelphia makes a move up in the first round to secure one of its “true” first-round talents.
Joe Giglio: Eagles will trade up for top-tier defender
WIP 94.1-FM’s Joe Giglio believes the Eagles will move up from the No. 32 pick and into the 20s to select one of the best defensive linemen in this year’s class.
“Here’s my prediction, one week away from the draft: the Eagles will trade into the 20s and take either a defensive tackle like Derrick Harmon or Walter Nolen — or grab the best remaining edge rusher, Donovan Ezeiruaku,” Giglio said.
Ezeiruaku has been linked to the Eagles in multiple mock drafts. He had a pre-draft visit with the team and brings the kind of production Philly’s front office covets.
Donovan Ezeiruaku: 28-sack college career
Ezeiruaku’s resume speaks for itself:
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28 career sacks
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16.5 sacks in 2024
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60 QB pressures
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37 solo tackles
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3 forced fumbles
He’s drawn comparisons to former Eagles pass rusher Haason Reddick because of his speed, bend, and explosiveness off the edge.
Dane Brugler of The Athletic also linked Ezeiruaku to the Eagles in his most recent 7-round mock draft.
Eagles need pass-rushing help
Philadelphia totaled 41 sacks in 2024, but 12 of those came from Josh Sweat and Brandon Graham — both of whom are no longer with the team.
Ezeiruaku would be a logical fit alongside young linemen like Jalen Carter and Nolan Smith Jr., creating a new-generation pass rush trio that could dominate for years.
Final thoughts
Although tight ends and wide receivers have also been linked to the Eagles in mock drafts, pass rush remains the most glaring need entering Day 1 of the 2025 NFL Draft.
And if Ezeiruaku is still on the board in the 20s?
Don’t be surprised if Howie Roseman makes a move.
