The Philadelphia Eagles grabbed an intriguing prospect to develop for the future in offensive tackle Markel Bell. But based on the early part of training camp, Bell could contribute sooner than originally predicted.
At least that’s what NBC Sports Philadelphia’s Dave Zangaro suggested Thursday. Zangaro included the 6-foot-9 offensive tackle on his list of six players with stock going up.
“The third-round pick from Miami has been getting first-team reps at right tackle with Lane Johnson (excused/non-injury) missing time,” wrote Zangaro. “The Eagles have a veteran in Fred Johnson, so it’s notable that the 6-foot-9 rookie has gotten all the reps at right tackle the last two days.
“New OL coach Chris Kuper must like what he has seen from Bell, who is learning to play on the right side after playing exclusively at left tackle in Miami.”
The Eagles landed Bell at No. 68 overall in the third round this past spring. The past few days, he’s received an opportunity for more snaps with Lane Johnson sidelined.
Markel Bell Getting Early Opportunity With Eagles
GettyPhiladelphia Eagles rookie offensive tackle Markel Bell is getting an opportunity at training camp.
When the Eagles selected Bell, the 345-pound prospect appeared destined to be the team’s fourth tackle. That would have been the case for any Day 2 tackle the Eagles selected in the 2026 NFL Draft. That’s because Johnson elected to forego retirement, and the Eagles re-signed swing tackle Fred Johnson.
But with Johnson out at training camp, Bell is getting some repetitions ahead of Johnson at right tackle.
With his massive size, Bell certainly has upside. He needs development, though, and with that in mind, his increased opportunities at practice could simply be to help him along. It is not a clear indication that he will play in front of Johnson should the Eagles lose one of their starting tackles during the regular season.
Having said that, it’s still notable that Bell is getting chances and doing well with them at camp.
When Will Lane Johnson Be Back for Eagles?
GettyNBC Sports Philadelphia’s Dave Zangaro argued rookie offensive tackle Markel Bell has his stock up for Nick Sirianni and the Philadelphia Eagles.
Bell will continue to be a significant storyline at Eagles camp until Johnson returns. However, Johnson might not be out much longer.
The Philadelphia Inquirer’s Jeff McLane reported Wednesday that Johnson has missed several practices this week with a “non-injury related reason.” McLane added on social media, though, that Johnson “is expected to return soon.”
Johnson is expected to return soon, from what I understand.
It sounds as though Johnson is dealing with a personal matter. Hopefully it’s not too serious.
From a football perspective, it’s good news Johnson doesn’t have an injury. The 36-year-old missed the final seven regular season games and the playoffs last year because of foot problem.
Johnson is a two-time first-team All-Pro and three-time second-team All-Pro. He’s also made six Pro Bowls over his 13-year career, all of which has been with the Eagles.
As intriguing as Bell is, the Eagles need Johnson back healthy to fully have the offensive line and offense they want this fall.
Eagles Massive Rookie Has ‘Stock Up’ After Strong Start to Training Camp