Eagles Lemon first 2026 draftee to sign rookie deal

Philadelphia Eagles wide receiver Makai Lemon signed his rookie contract on Thursday, becoming the first player from the 2026 NFL Draft class to ink a deal with his team. The Eagles selected the 21-year-old Southern California product 20th overall last week after trading up three spots, securing a four-year pact worth just over $20.81 million in fully guaranteed money, including an $11.5 million signing bonus and a fifth-year team option.

Lemon capped his college career by winning the 2025 Biletnikoff Award as the nation's top receiver, highlighted by a final season of 79 catches for 1,156 yards and 11 touchdowns. Over three years with the Trojans, he amassed 137 receptions for 2,008 yards and 14 scores in 33 games. At 5-foot-11 and 192 pounds, the former five-star recruit drew comparisons to Detroit Lions star Amon-Ra St. Brown for his versatility and ability to create mismatches.

The signing caps a busy offseason for Philadelphia's receiving group. The Eagles added Marquise Brown and Elijah Moore in free agency, acquired Dontayvion Wicks via trade and drafted tight end Eli Stowers in the second round. Speculation persists around veteran A.J. Brown, with officials and reports...