Chandler Rivers Generates Early Interest from Eagles Ahead of 2026 NFL Draft
As the college football season heats up, discussions surrounding the 2026 NFL Draft are beginning to surface, albeit a bit prematurely. One name that is gaining traction among scouts is cornerback Chandler Rivers from Duke University. While it’s still early in the evaluation process, Rivers is emerging as a potential target for the Philadelphia Eagles, a team known for its proactive approach to player acquisition.
Eagles’ Draft Strategy Unfolds
The Philadelphia Eagles have a reputation for being vigilant in their search for talent, regardless of the calendar. Whether it’s the offseason or the start of the regular season, the Eagles are continually assessing their roster and looking for ways to improve. Recently, they made headlines with the addition of former Pro Bowler Za’Darius Smith and running back Tank Bigsby, showcasing their commitment to enhancing their lineup.
As teams begin to strategize for the upcoming draft, Bleacher Report’s scouting department is already projecting the Eagles’ needs. In their latest analysis, they identified tight end as the Eagles’ primary need, followed closely by cornerback. This focus on cornerback reflects a growing concern over the team’s depth at that position, particularly after a lackluster performance from Adoree’ Jackson during the season opener.
Chandler Rivers: A Rising Star
In this context, Chandler Rivers stands out as a key prospect. Despite being a three-star recruit, Rivers has made significant strides in his game, tallying four tackles, two tackles for loss, and two passes defended over his first two games this season. His development is catching the eye of analysts, who believe he could fit well within the Eagles’ defensive scheme.
Bleacher Report has noted Rivers as one of the top cornerback fits for Philadelphia, alongside fellow prospects Mansoor Delane from LSU and Malik Muhammad from Texas. While Tennessee’s Jermod McCoy currently tops the big board for cornerbacks, his injury history raises questions about his availability for the Eagles. Meanwhile, Rivers, Delane, and Muhammad are seen as more suitable options to complement Quinyon Mitchell in the Eagles’ secondary.
The Road Ahead for Rivers
As Rivers continues to build on his performance this season, the pressure is on for him to showcase his skills further. With the draft still months away, it’s essential for him to maintain his momentum and solidify his standing among the top cornerback prospects. The Eagles, with their keen eye for talent, will undoubtedly be watching closely as Rivers aims to elevate his game in his fourth college season.
In a league where every play counts, Chandler Rivers is poised to make his mark, and the buzz surrounding him could very well transform into a tangible opportunity come draft day.
