Eagles Former Top Draft Signs With NFC Rival

The Philadelphia Eagles have built one of the best offensive lines in the NFL, but they have not kept all of the lineman that they have drafted.

The reigning Super Bowl champions selected Washington State tackle Andre Dillard with the 22nd pick in the first round of the 2019 NFL Draft, but he only played three seasons with them. He appeared in 43 games, but only started in nine, and the team decided to move on from him and release him.

He then signed with the Tennessee Titans where he spent one season, starting in 10 games. The Green Bay Packers then signed him after he was released again, and they also cut him after one season.

Now, he is looking for a new start with the San Francisco 49ers, who signed him to a one-year deal on Friday. They already have the best tackle in football in Trent Williams, but he missed seven games in 2024 due to injury, so it is always good to have a backup.

Some reported that Williams would be considering retirement this offseason, but Niners general manager John Lynch has confirmed that the 11-time Pro Bowler is "motivated", and will return to play for the team in 2025.

Whether or not Williams remains healthy and plays the entire season, Dillard will remain ready and willing to back him up if the 49ers happen to call upon him. He will be looking to show that he was the 22nd pick in his draft for a reason.