With the No. 252 pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, the Philadelphia Eagles select … Keyshawn James-Newby, edge rusher, New Mexico!
KJN marks the Birds’ final selection in this year’s draft.
The 23-year-old defender originally played for Montana Tech before transferring to Idaho for two years. He then finished his college football career with New Mexico, posting nine sacks and 15 tackles for loss in 2025.
Philadelphia boosted their edge rusher rotation this weekend by trading for Jonathan Greenard and signing him to a contract extension. They’re also notably returning Jalyx Hunt and Nolan Smith while also adding Arnold Ebiketie and Joe Tryon-Shoyinka through free agency.
KJN is fighting an uphill battle just to make the Eagles’ roster as a depth player who might be able to help out on special teams. Could be practice squad material as a rookie.
Scouting report via NFL.com’s Lance Zierlein:
From Montana Tech to Idaho to New Mexico, James-Newby has stayed hungry and productive at every stop. He’s undersized by NFL standards but plays much longer than he measures. He keeps his eyes on the prize instead of getting locked into long battles with the blocks in front of him. Power and length get the best of him, but not as often as I expected. He flashes good get-off, smart angles and efficient cornering that keeps him tight to the pocket as a rusher. James-Newby’s rush lacks diversity but a dangerous stab move is waiting to be unlocked. His high motor and disruptive ability should make him a solid sub-package edge rusher.
Measurables and athletic testing:
Watch his highlights video:
Grade the pick
Remaining Eagles draft picks
1 (20) – Makai Lemon, WR, USC
2 (54) – Eli Stowers, TE, Vanderbilt
3 (68) – Markel Bell, OT, Miami
5 (178) – Cole Payton, QB, North Dakota State
6 (207) – Micah Morris, OG, Georgia
7 (244) – Cole Wisniewski, S, Texas Tech
7 (251) – Uar Bernard, DT
7 (252) – Keyshawn James-Newby, EDGE, New Mexico
Remaining Eagles needs
Long snapper