Philadelphia Eagles first-round draft pick Makai Lemon missed team OTA work with an implied hamstring injury as fans reacted to the rookie's sideline appearance before next season
18:38 ET, 04 Jun 2026
Makai Lemon attends Eagles OTAs with a protective sleeve
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Makai Lemon was spotted with a protective sleeve over his right leg, causing injury scares before next NFL season
NFL fans will quickly turn into online amateur doctors at the slightest hint of any possible injuries that could hamper the next season before it even begins.
Philadelphia Eagles fans found themselves investigating this week when first-round draft pick Makai Lemon was spotted watching OTAs from the sideline wearing a black compression sleeve on his right leg. Lemon participated in several team sessions before Thursday's session.
The NFL rookie wide receiver was spotted in team gear while carrying a football and appeared to be favoring the leg with a limp while teammates went through drills.
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Meanwhile, the Pittsburgh Steelers could be punished for contacting Lemon as Philadelphia was swooping in to draft him.
The sight instantly raised concern among the Eagles fanbase. With A.J. Brown now in New England, the Philly is counting on Lemon to become a key target alongside DeVonta Smith and Hollywood Brown.
A. J. Brown was dealt to New England in exchange for a 2028 first-round pick and a 2027 fifth-round selection. The deal reunited the ex-Eagles star with Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel, who was a key part of the Tennessee Titans from 2019 through 2021.
While Brown and Vrabel build chemistry, the former USC star's participation in camp was reduced to spectator status. Team insiders suggested the issue is mostly precautionary, and the Philadelphia Inquirer reported that Eagles cornerback Quinyon Mitchell confirmed Lemon was dealing with a hamstring injury.
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Lemon turned 22 years old on Tuesday and was chosen with the 20th overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft after Philadelphia traded up to secure their pass catcher of the future. The Eagles also traded two late draft picks for ex-Packers WR Dontayvion Wicks to continue bolstering their unit.
Lemon was a full participant throughout much of the Eagles' spring program before the team took precautions. Eagles beat reporters confirmed that Lemon received first-team reps during practices on May 26, May 27, and May 28.
He was shown mostly working alongside quarterback Jalen Hurts and DeVonta Smith as coaches evaluated his route-running, foot speed, and catching abilities.
DeVonta Smith and Makai Lemon stand during Eagles OTAs
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Lemon's protective sleeve alarmed Eagles fans
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Lemon also reportedly participated in Monday's practice before reports emerged of discomfort late in the session. The team decided that he would no longer take part in football drills the following day.
The Eagles later held him out on Wednesday and Thursday's sessions, and sources indicate the organization decided to shut him down for the remainder of OTAs. Lemon could also miss the mandatory minicamp that begins on Tuesday as the franchise prioritizes his recovery.
Official training camp for the organization begins in late July at the NovaCare Complex before a three-week NFL preseason schedule featuring the Baltimore Ravens, Cincinnati Bengals, and the New England Patriots team that will be freshly equipped with Brown.