The Eagles' 2026 NFL Draft class is under scrutiny, and one player who has caught the eye is Keyshawn James-Newby. Despite facing long odds, the undersized sub-package rusher has impressed with his pass-rushing production and burst. His 1.63-second ten-yard split and ability to get off the ball quickly are notable strengths. James-Newby's hand usage and rush plan, including hand swipes and spin moves, set him apart from a straight-line speed rusher. His low center of gravity and flexibility allow him to stay low and tight to the pocket, making him a consistent disruptor. However, his size and run defense weaknesses are concerns. He struggles against bigger offensive linemen and has a high missed-tackle rate, indicating a situational pass rusher role. The Eagles' history of drafting pass rushers and their ability to develop edge rushers make James-Newby a promising prospect. His production metrics and first step give coaches something to work with, and his special teams value could be a deciding factor. While the odds are long, James-Newby's potential as a sub-rusher makes him a worthwhile investment in the 7th round.
