As the 2026 NFL Draft quickly approaches, Philadelphia Eagles fans are eager to see who general manager Howie Roseman selects during the highly anticipated event.

This offseason has been filled with drama, as the fallout between quarterback Jalen Hurts and the organization continues to make national headlines. However, the one issue that still remains at the forefront of Roseman’s mind before the 2026 NFL season is the ongoing trade rumors surrounding star wide receiver AJ Brown.

With Brown voicing his dissatisfaction with the Eagles, it’s clear that the front office must begin its search for his replacement. Luckily, Louisville wide receiver Chris Bell could be exactly what the team is looking for in the upcoming draft.

Bell, after spending the last four seasons with the Cardinals, managed to catch the attention of many NFL teams following his junior season with the program. The prolific wideout recorded 43 receptions for 737 yards and four touchdowns during the 2024 college football season.

Unfortunately for Bell, his final season at the college level was cut short after suffering a season-ending ACL injury. Still, despite only playing in 11 games throughout his 2025 season, Bell finished with a career-high 917 receiving yards and six touchdowns on 72 catches. But instead of being a projected first-round pick in the upcoming draft, his injury caused his draft stock to tumble, and he is now slated to be a Day Two pick.

Standing at 6-foot-2, 222 lbs., Bell possesses a similar frame and skill set to Brown. Both playmakers have terrific yards after the catch ability that an NFL offense can build around at the next level. Last season, Bell averaged 5.2 yards after the catch, while also forcing nine missed tackles in 2025. With Eagles’ fellow wideout DeVonta Smith being a polished route-runner, Bell’s skill set makes him an excellent fit alongside the former 2021 first-round pick.

If Philadelphia were to ultimately select the former ACC standout receiver in this year’s draft, the most likely spot that the organization could take him is in the second round at pick No. 54. This would allow the Eagles to use their first-round pick to address multiple needs on the defensive side of the ball, such as EDGE rusher TJ Parker or Keldric Faulk.

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