League: NFL Sport: Football Country: United States Category: Injuries

Eagles rookie Makai Lemon prepares for season debut under DeVonta Smith

3 sources • 2 min read • Latest: Sep 12, 2026, 2:44 AM

Last updated Sep 12, 2026

Eagles rookie Makai Lemon prepares for season debut under DeVonta Smith

Summary

Philadelphia Eagles wide receiver Makai Lemon is preparing for his NFL debut following a preseason interrupted by multiple hamstring injuries. Coaches directed the first-round pick to shadow team captain DeVonta Smith throughout rehab and practice sessions to accelerate his professional development. While Lemon missed team drills, he participated in extensive film study and on-field work with quarterback Jalen Hurts. Offensive coordinator Sean Mannion noted that Lemon demonstrated strong mental preparation regarding route details and alignments despite limited preseason game action. Lemon remains on the roster as the Eagles prepare for their season opener against the Washington Commanders on September 13.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

Status Watch

•Makai Lemon was selected 20th overall in the first round of the spring draft.
•The receiver missed time during training camp due to recurring hamstring issues.
•DeVonta Smith mentored Lemon during their shared rehabilitation period.
•The Eagles host the Washington Commanders for their season opener on September 13.

Latest Updates

2:44 AMYahoo Sports — Ex-Eagles Player Gives Concerning Makai Lemon Analysis
10:38 PMYahoo Sports — Eagles news: DeVonta Smith reveals advice to Makai Lemon before NFL debut
10:44 AMYahoo Sports — How Eagles WR 'not threatened by anything' gets Makai Lemon NFL ready

What they're saying

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The Philadelphia Eagles will be opening their season against the Washington Commanders, and they have some new faces on the team this year that are set to make an early impact. One of those players is rookie Makai Lemon, whom the Eagles selected in the first round of the draft. Just like any rookie, there could be some jitters coming out into your […] The post Eagles news: DeVonta Smith reveals advice to Makai Lemon before NFL debut appeared first on ClutchPoints.
— Yahoo Sports

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The pressure is high for the Philadelphia Eagles rookie wide receiver Makai Lemon to perform well out of the gate. That comes with being a first-round pick, especially in a town like Philly. Former Eagles player Jon Ritchie recently expressed his concern with Lemon, as the Eagles prepare for Week 1 against the Washington Commanders. […] The post Ex-Eagles Player Gives Concerning Makai Lemon Analysis appeared first on HEAVY.
— Yahoo Sports