The Philadelphia Eagles added to the offensive line by selecting Markel Bell from Miami University with the 68th selection in the third round of the 2026 NFL Draft. Philly adds more size to their offensive group with a 6-foot-9, 345-pound mountain of a man to lock things down in front of running back Saquon Barkley. The former Hurricane showcased his impressive agility alongside his massive size, running a 5.36 40-yard dash a month ago at the 2026 NFL Combine in Indianapolis, Indiana.
Bell, 21, is expected to provide some additional insurance along the offensive line, but should not be expected to jump into the Eagles' starting unit immediately. The junior lineman helped the Hurricanes lead the nation in both points per game (43.9 points) and yards per game (537.2) over 12 games. However, it might take some time for him to learn how best to use his size and athletic ability at the NFL level.
Bell should have a solid new mentor in Jordan Mailata, a 6-foot-8 rugby player turned into an NFL Champion lineman under legendary coach Jeff Stoutland. While Stoutland is no longer with the Eagles organization, Mialata can no doubt share some of the wisdom he learned from one of the Eagles’ most beloved coaches along the way.
Philadelphia is finished for the day unless general manager Howie Roseman trades back into the second day of the draft in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Philly owns three picks on the final afternoon of the NFL draft: 178th overall in the fifth round, 197th overall in the sixth round, and 244th overall in the seventh round. That final round pick, the 22nd in the seventh round, was acquired as part of the Eagles trade for Jonathan Greenard earlier on Friday night.
For more on the Eagles draft, visit MetroPhiladelphia.com.
