The Philadelphia Eagles are gearing up for the upcoming 2024 NFL Draft with their sights set on addressing their offensive tackle position. Despite having needs on defense, particularly in the secondary, the Eagles' general manager Howie Roseman has consistently prioritized the lines and looks to secure a potential replacement for Lane Johnson, who will be entering his 12th year.

With a highly regarded class of tackles in this year's draft, it remains uncertain if the right fit for Philadelphia will be available at the 22nd position. However, Roseman has a history of being proactive and maneuvering the draft board to find the best talent to bolster the team's offensive line.

Among the top rankings for edge defenders in the 2024 NFL Draft, UCLA's Laiatu Latu stands out as an outstanding prospect. Latu showcases elite hand quickness and athleticism, making him an effective pass rusher. His speed and coordination on the field have garnered attention from experts, potentially making him an appealing choice for the Eagles.

In terms of potential picks for other teams, there are speculations that the Washington Commanders might select Jayden Daniels. Although Daniels possesses immense upside, if he expresses disinterest in joining the team, it could create a comical yet embarrassing situation for the franchise. From a football standpoint, Eagles fans might prefer Daniels to land in Washington to avoid strengthening their NFC East rivals.

According to power rankings by Pro Football Focus, the Eagles currently rank fifth among all 32 NFL teams. Their biggest loss was linebacker Haason Reddick, while their biggest gain came in the form of quarterback Kenny Pickett. The team's coverage unit is an area of weakness, but Philadelphia took steps to improve it by signing cornerbacks Tyler Hall and defensive end Bryce Huff. Notably, the Eagles' signing of running back Saquon Barkley from division-rival Giants adds depth and versatility to their offensive arsenal.

In a mock draft by Roob of NBCSP, the Eagles are projected to trade with the Cincinnati Bengals and select Alabama offensive tackle J.C. Latham at the 18th position. This move signifies Roseman's proactive approach and his belief in the importance of offensive line depth. Latham's size, footwork, power, and athleticism make him a capable player who could compete at various positions on the line, providing insurance for Johnson's eventual retirement.

Furthermore, in another Eagles-only mock draft by Iggles Blitz, cornerback Max Melton from Rutgers is projected to be picked at 53rd overall. Melton's flexibility to play both outside and slot positions, along with his playmaking ability, make him an enticing target for Philadelphia as they seek to strengthen their secondary.

As anticipation builds for the 2024 NFL Draft, the Eagles are expected to focus their attention on adding promising prospects in the offensive tackle and cornerback positions. With the team's commitment to solidifying their lines and addressing defensive shortcomings, Philadelphia aims to build a competitive roster for the upcoming season.