Eagles Draft Linebacker Smael Mondon Jr. from Georgia

PHILADELPHIA — The Philadelphia Eagles selected linebacker Smael Mondon Jr. with the 161st overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft on April 26. Mondon, 22, played at the University of Georgia, where he became a standout athlete known for his coverage skills.

During his college career, Mondon started 32 of 51 games and was part of two national championship teams. Georgia head coach Kirby Smart praised Mondon’s instincts and confidence. Despite dealing with injuries in recent years, including a foot injury that limited his playtime, Mondon finished strong, recording a career-high 13 tackles in a game against Georgia Tech in 2024.

Mondon’s versatility makes him an asset for the Eagles’ defense. NFL analysts project him as a backup linebacker and a contributor on special teams. He showed promise during his time at Georgia, particularly in man and zone coverage. However, his run defense needs improvement as he works on his strength and quickness.

Scouting reports indicate that Mondon has the potential to grow into a starting role, provided he develops his defensive skills. His measurements stood out during evaluations; he is 6 feet 2 inches tall and weighs 229 pounds. He ran a 4.58-second 40-yard dash during his pro day, showcasing his speed.

The Eagles are excited about Mondon’s potential to enhance their linebacker corps, which has seen adjustments during the offseason. General Manager Howie Roseman stated that the team has no concerns about Mondon’s injury history, highlighting their confidence in his abilities on the field.

As the Eagles continue to build their roster, Mondon joins several other Georgia Bulldogs who have entered the NFL through the Eagles, underscoring the team’s strategy of drafting from successful college programs.