The Philadelphia Eagles’ return in the C.J. Gardner-Johnson trade comes with an intriguing twist—one that could pay off if Jeff Stoutland works his magic once again.
Kenyon Green, a 2022 first-round pick, was considered one of the top interior offensive line prospects out of Texas A&M. The Eagles had serious interest in him during the pre-draft process, even hosting him for a top-30 visit. However, he ended up with the Houston Texans at No. 15 overall—a pick originally belonging to Philadelphia before they traded up to select Jordan Davis.
Now in Philly, Green finds himself in a situation similar to Mekhi Becton—another high-profile first-rounder who struggled with his original team. Green’s setbacks have been significant, including missing the entire 2023 season due to a shoulder injury. When he did play, Pro Football Focus consistently ranked him among the league’s lowest-graded guards.
“I can’t pinpoint one thing that didn’t go my way,” Green admitted Thursday. “It was lessons every day, every game. It was on me at times, and I need to be better—health-wise, confidence-wise, and overall as a player.”
Despite his struggles, Green’s pre-draft scouting reports suggest why the Eagles believe he still has potential. NFL Network’s Daniel Jeremiah initially ranked him as a top-20 prospect, praising his power, footwork, and versatility.
At just 23, Green now joins “Stoutland University”—the Eagles’ renowned offensive line development program. While not every reclamation project under Stoutland has been a success, his track record gives Green hope for a career revival. Having worked with Stoutland before, Green is eager for the opportunity.
“Man, just great conversation, a great man,” Green said of Stoutland. “I know he loves his players. I’m going to give them everything I have.”
Depending on how things play out with Becton, Green could compete with Tyler Steen for the starting right guard job or serve as a backup. His future in Philadelphia will depend on his work ethic, his ability to adapt to Stoutland’s demanding coaching style, and the progress he makes.
For Green, this is a fresh start.
“Definitely, I feel like this is a breath of fresh air,” he said. “New surroundings, new people, a different atmosphere. I’m extremely grateful for what the Texans did for me, but I’m excited and happy to be here.”
If Green can rediscover the talent that made him a first-round pick, he could become another hidden gem unearthed by general manager Howie Roseman and the Eagles’ staff.
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