NFL Draft Results: Eagles pick Smael Mondon Jr. at No. 161

The Eagles have a new linebacker!

With the 161th pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, the reigning Super Bowl champion Philadelphia Eagles select … Smael Mondon Jr., linebacker, Georgia!

Certainly no surprise to see Howie Roseman adding another Bulldogs defender to their roster.

Mondon, who turned 22 in January, is an off-ball linebacker who made 32 starts in 51 games played for Georgia.

He figures to be a backup linebacker and special teams contributor in Philly, though he could potentially compete for playing time if 1) Nakobe Dean misses time early in the season and 3) Jihaad Campbell is used more at edge rusher.

Mondon was LB6, according to BGN’s Jonny Page:

Overall: Mondon is a versatile linebacker with tools but still needs to refine his processing and physicality against the run. He has the length and range to be a starting-caliber linebacker, but his issues need a lot of work. He projects more as a rotational piece and a strong special teams player in the early stages of his career.

Eagles Thoughts: Mondon would likely fit into the Eagles’ defense as a rotational linebacker and special teams contributor. Fangio would like his ability to play in coverage, but he would need to sit for a little while he develops against the run. I wouldn’t consider him until day 3.

Scouting report via NFL.com’s Lance Zierlein:

Mondon is physical and can run. He’s quick to flow downhill and challenge blocks with good pop. He’s inconsistent to diagnose and flow accurately to his fits, but he has good pursuit speed to range and tackle to the sidelines. He pursues the action with focus and leverage. Mondon becomes tackle-ready quickly in space. He’s effective on passing downs with good coverage and blitz talent. The run game instincts could slow him early in his career, but he’s a battle-tested, three-down option with special teams value and starting potential.

College stats via Sports Reference:

Spider graph via Mockdraftable:

Watch his highlights video:

Grade the pick

Remaining Eagles draft picks

1 (31) – LB Jihaad Campbell

2 (64) – S Andrew Mukuba

4 (111) – DT Ty Robinson

5 (145) – CB Mac McWilliams

5 (161) – LB Smael Mondon Jr.

5 (165) –

5 (168) –

6 (191) –

6 (207) –

Remaining Eagles needs

Edge rusher

Tight end

Offensive guard

Offensive tackle