With the 2026 NFL season less than a month away, it is never too early to check out some way-to-early mock drafts. While Philadelphia Eagles hope to be selecting with pick No. 32 with the Lombardi Trophy sitting beside them, Bleacher Report’s latest mock draft has the Eagles landing cornerback Ellis Robinson IV with the No. 26 pick.
Now, Eagles cornerbacks Quinyon Mitchell and Cooper DeJean were absolute studs last season, both allowing zero touchdowns in coverage and earning First-Team All-Pro honors, the first Eagles cornerback duo to do so since 2004. DeJean worked primarily in the slot and this season will rotate between slot and safety depending on defensive personnel.
Kelee Ringo and Adoree’ Jackson, who saw the majority of work on the boundary opposite of Mitchell, both allowed two touchdowns, a modest figure on paper, but their overall coverage metrics tell a much uglier story. According to Pro Football Focus, Ringo ranked 104th in pass coverage out of 114 qualified cornerbacks, while Jackson placed 90th.
The Eagles signed Riq Woolen to a one-year, $12 million contract to fill the glaring need. Woolen was a crucial part of the Seattle Seahawks Super Bowl winning defense, with his 4.3 speed and ball skills.
However, if Woolen returns to the Pro Bowl level he was during his rookie season as the Eagles expect, he will likely command a massive contract on the open market next spring. With massive extensions looming for Mitchell and DeJean, giving Woolen a massive deal likely would not be the priority for Philadelphia.
The Case for Ellis Robinson IV
That’s where Ellis Robinson IV enters the picture. The former No. 1 recruit chose Georgia over Alabama, Colorado, LSU, and Miami. While only playing four games his freshman season (keeping with redshirt eligibility), Robinson IV burst onto the scene the following year.
As a redshirt freshman, Robinson IV played all 14 games on a Georgia defense that ranked 23rd nationally in scoring defense and 30th in total yards allowed per game. He recorded 7 passes broken up and 4 interceptions, earning him second-team All-SEC nods. Scouts praise his ability to locate the ball in the air and his knack for undercutting routes.
Georgia has essentially served as a pipeline for the Eagles, as Howie Roseman has selected six Bulldogs defenders across the last five drafts. Robinson IV could be the latest Bulldog to suit up in Eagles green.
