Eagles Draft Undrafted Defensive Tackle Uar Bernard in 2026 NFL Draft

The Philadelphia Eagles have taken a calculated risk by selecting defensive tackle Uar Bernard in the 2026 NFL Draft. Bernard, who has never played organized football, was chosen with the 251st overall pick in the seventh round.

This move mirrors the Eagles' successful gamble on tackle Jordan Mailata eight years ago. Mailata, selected in the seventh round of the 2018 NFL Draft, has since started 85 regular-season games and earned second-team All-Pro honors in 2024. The Eagles are hopeful that Bernard will follow a similar trajectory.

Bernard’s Journey to the NFL

Bernard’s path to the NFL began when he was invited by Osi Umenyiora to participate in the 2024 NFL Nigeria camp. His performance there led to his inclusion in the NFL’s International Player Pathway program class of 2026. This program provided him with the opportunity to showcase his athleticism and potential.

At the HBCU Showcase and International Player Pathway Pro Day in March, Bernard, who stands at 6-foot-4 and weighs 306 pounds, ran the 40-yard dash in 4.63 seconds and recorded a 39-inch vertical jump.

"It's a dream come true for me because I've worked hard for this. I've not played football, but I've gone through some drills that made me believe that I'm going to get better every day. I thank God for everything. I thank God for life. I thank God for the opportunities given to me to be drafted by the Eagles."

Eagles’ Decision and Long-Term Vision

General Manager Howie Roseman emphasized the team’s commitment to Bernard, stating, "We wanted to take the chance on the kid." He acknowledged the challenges ahead but expressed confidence in Bernard’s physical tools.

"Obviously, we've had great success with that program. We spent a lot of time with him. Coach [Clint] Hurtt went down there and spent the day with him, worked him out. You know, just for us, it was a passion project. Obviously, he's got a lot of tools in his body. Understand it's going to take time. It's going to take a lot of time here."

The Eagles’ strategy reflects a broader trend in the NFL, where teams are increasingly scouting globally for untapped athletic talent, even if those players have no prior football experience. Bernard’s selection underscores the league’s growing emphasis on international development and the potential for uncharted talent to make an impact.

Mailata’s Success Story

Mailata’s journey from the International Player Pathway program to becoming a Super Bowl-winning starter serves as a blueprint for Bernard’s potential path. The Eagles hope Bernard can replicate Mailata’s success, bringing a new dimension to the team’s defensive line.

As the NFL continues to expand its global reach, the Eagles’ decision to draft Bernard highlights the league’s evolving approach to player recruitment and development.