ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – Every college football player hopes to hear their name on draft day. For former New Mexico edge rusher Keyshawn James-Newby, that hope turned into reality in the 2026 NFL Draft.
The Philadelphia Eagles used their final pick, No. 252 overall, to select James-Newby. They finished their draft class by adding one of the Lobos’ most determined defenders.
For New Mexico fans, this moment is more than a draft pick. It shows the program’s progress under head coach Jason Eck and highlights
the development happening in Albuquerque. James-Newby’s journey is a clear example of that growth.
A Journey Defined by Persistence
James-Newby’s path to the NFL was far from traditional. He got there through steady work, strong results, and constant effort.
He started his college career at Montana Tech, then transferred to Idaho for two seasons to improve his skills. He finished at New Mexico, where he made a big impact against FBS teams.
In 2025, James-Newby was a key player for the Mountain West defense. He recorded 9 sacks, often putting pressure on opposing quarterbacks and changing the momentum in important games.
- 15 tackles for loss
His skill at disrupting offenses and applying steady pressure helped the Lobo defense win games. He became a key part of the team’s breakout season.
A Historic Pick for New Mexico
James-Newby’s selection is important for the program’s history.
He is the first New Mexico player drafted by the Philadelphia Eagles in over 50 years. While few Lobos have been picked by the team, he is not the first to play for the Eagles.
Former New Mexico standout wide receiver Hank Baskett III went undrafted in 2006, then signed with the Minnesota Vikings and was later traded to the Philadelphia Eagles.
Baskett went on to spend the majority of his NFL career with the Eagles, playing from 2006 to 2009 and again in 2010, with additional stops in Minnesota and Indianapolis.
Now, James-Newby has a chance to make his own mark in Philadelphia.
Scouting Report: High Motor, High Upside
NFL draft analyst Lance Zierlein believes James-Newby’s effort and instincts will help him succeed in the NFL:
“From Montana Tech to Idaho to New Mexico, James-Newby has stayed hungry and productive at every stop… He’s undersized by NFL standards but plays much longer than he measures… His high motor and disruptive ability should make him a solid sub-package edge rusher.”
While he may not have the typical NFL size, his quickness, technique, and smart play help him perform beyond his frame. This quality showed up often on film.
James-Newby joins a Philadelphia team that has invested heavily in its pass rush, making for a competitive environment.
The Eagles:
- Acquired and extended Jonathan Greenard
- Return young talent like Jalyx Hunt and Nolan Smith.
- Added depth with Arnold Ebiketie and Joe Tryon-Shoyinka
This means he will have to earn his spot.
He is expected to develop as an edge rusher and could help the Eagles’ special teams right away with his energy. Even if he starts on the practice squad, his record of making big defensive plays shows he can compete for a bigger role.
Another Step Forward for Lobo Football
For New Mexico, this moment shows the program is still moving up and producing NFL-level talent.
With Jason Eck as head coach, the Lobos have focused on toughness, player growth, and finding overlooked talent. The coaching staff, including position coach Hebron “Loni” Fangupo, is known for developing both strong athletes and high-character people.
James-Newby embodies that identity perfectly.
From small-school beginnings to standout games, his journey shows what New Mexico football is becoming: a program where players grow, succeed, and earn chances at the next level.
A Long Road, A Big Reward
James-Newby graduated from Helena High School and built his résumé one step at a time. At Idaho, he earned First-Team All-Big Sky honors with 10.5 sacks and 14.5 tackles for loss. Earlier, he was a First-Team All-Frontier Conference pick at Montana Tech, leading the league in sacks as a sophomore.
At every stop, he grew as a player.
At each level, he delivered results.
Now, he’s reached the NFL.
What It Means
James-Newby’s story is about perseverance meeting opportunity.
James-Newby’s journey shows that hard work and steady growth can lead to NFL chances. It also strengthens New Mexico’s reputation for producing pro-ready talent.
In Albuquerque, this message is clear.
James-Newby’s achievement is a clear example of New Mexico’s growing connection to the NFL.
Now, he gets his shot in Philadelphia.
