Each year, the Fred Biletnikoff Award is presented to the best wide receiver in college football. Alabama WR DeVonta Smith took home the award in 2021 after breaking multiple school and conference records on his way to a Heisman Trophy. He was then drafted by the Philadelphia Eagles at No. 10 overall in the NFL Draft.
Five years later, the Eagles have added another Biletnikoff Award winner in USC WR Makai Lemon.
With the No. 20 overall pick in the 2026 @NFLDraft, the @Eagles select Makai Lemon. @NewEraCapNFL Draft on NFLN/ESPN/ABCStream on @NFLPlus pic.twitter.com/lWU7c2EoCc
Lemon, selected with the No. 20 overall pick after Philadelphia traded up with the Dallas Cowboys, was the engine of USC's offense last season. He recorded career-highs across the board, catching 79 passes for 1,156 yards and 11 touchdowns. While Lemon may not boast prototypical size (5-foot-11, 192 pounds), his competitive edge and tenacity on the field more than make up for it.
"There's a lot to like about him," Howie Roseman said. "Competitor. Has the ability to separate in man coverage, out of the slot, he can play outside. Physical player. Really good with the ball in his hands. Really good hands. Good in zone coverage, has really good instincts."
Lemon's arrival likely signals the end of A.J. Brown's tenure in Philadelphia. With all signs pointing to an eventual deal with New England, Lemon may step into a significant role early alongside Smith and Dontayvion Wicks.
161 seconds of Makai Lemon being tough to tackle pic.twitter.com/z9yE926QAt
This article originally appeared on Eagles Wire: Eagles have two Biletnikoff Award winners on the roster after drafting Makai Lemon
