Could a Penn State Standout Join the Eagles in the 2025 NFL Draft?

Abdul Carter, a Philadelphia native and lifelong Eagles fan, once celebrated his team’s Super Bowl LIX victory over the Kansas City Chiefs in New Orleans. The star edge rusher from Penn State has made no secret of his love for the Birds — but his NFL future likely lies elsewhere.

Carter, one of the top overall prospects in the 2025 NFL Draft, is expected to be off the board within the first four picks. Meanwhile, the Eagles hold the final pick of the first round at No. 32. Unless GM Howie Roseman pulls off a major trade to move into the top five, Carter landing in Philly seems out of reach.

However, another dynamic Penn State defender could realistically be heading to Philadelphia: safety Kevin Winston Jr. A playmaking All-Big Ten talent, Winston is projected by ESPN’s Mel Kiper Jr. to be selected by the Eagles at No. 64 overall — the final pick of the second round.

In his recent mock draft, Kiper wrote, “The Eagles could close Round 2 by staying in state.”

Winston was once viewed as a potential first-round pick, but an ACL injury early in the 2024 season limited him to just two games. Despite the setback, he remains a highly regarded prospect. At Penn State’s pro day last month, Winston ran a 4.50-second 40-yard dash — a promising sign just five months removed from the injury. He’s aiming to be fully healthy by the start of summer training camp.

While Carter may be out of reach, the Eagles could still add a Nittany Lion with star potential to their defense.