The Philadelphia Eagles addressed the offensive tackle position in the third round of the 2026 NFL Draft, selecting Markel Bell 68th overall. After spending his first two seasons in JUCO with Holmes Community College, Bell committed to Miami as the fourth-rated recruit in the 2024 JUCO recruiting class. He served as the swing tackle in 2024 before starting five games at left tackle in place of the injured Jalen Rivers. He took over as the starting left tackle in 2025, starting 16 games and earning Third-Team All-ACC honors.
In his rookie season, Markel Bell is expected to see reps at both left and right tackle and will compete against incumbent Fred Johnson for the team’s swing tackle role. Once Lane Johnson retires, Bell could replace him as the right tackle of the future.
The Philadelphia Eagles ink the massive 6-foot-9 tackle, wrap up draft class
Jan 19, 2026; Miami Gardens, FL, USA; Miami Hurricanes offensive lineman Markel Bell (70) against the Indiana Hoosiers during the College Football Playoff National Championship game at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
According to Tom Pelissero of NFL Network, the Eagles have signed Markel Bell to a four-year rookie contract, wrapping up their 2026 NFL Draft Class. Tony Camino of NFL Trade Rumorsprojects the deal to be worth $7.36 million with a $1.84 million signing bonus. The main holdup in Bell signing the deal is that agents are trying to secure guaranteed base salaries for third-round picks. However, teams have remained steadfast that the only guaranteed money they receive is the signing bonus.
The Eagles have signed third-round pick OT Markel Bell, per his agents Marlon Moore, Trey Robinson and Connor Mullins of @AthEliteAgency.
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) June 23, 2026
“Mountainous tackle with rare physical attributes that work both in his favor and against him depending on the situation. There is no escaping a high center of gravity, which will impact his ability to change direction in protection and create consistent engagement as a run blocker. Bell must play in a gap-scheme attack to minimize his limitations. He has exceptional length that he puts to good use in finding static pass rushers and offering shade to the pocket. NFL edge speed and sudden inside moves could be an evergreen issue for Bell, but with coaching he could learn to mitigate those issues with his length. He has Day 3 value but might have a firm ceiling on his upside.”
He projects as an above-average backup.
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