Makai Lemon carries significant expectations into his rookie season, but former Philadelphia Eagles wide receiver Jason Avant believes patience will be required. Avant said during an appearance on SportsRadio 94WIP that Lemon may need “a year or two” before he completely figures out the NFL game.
That assessment does not question Lemon’s talent. It reflects the difficulty of transitioning from college football to an NFL offense while learning the details required to play wide receiver at the professional level. Philadelphia selected Lemon in the first round to become a long-term centerpiece alongside DeVonta Smith. The former USC standout offers route-running ability, positional versatility, and the potential to create yards after the catch.
Former Eagles WR Jason Avant says it may take Makai Lemon "a year or two" before he fully figures things out. pic.twitter.com/k3xmx1MLjJ
— SPORTSRADIO 94WIP (@SportsRadioWIP) September 9, 2026
A hamstring injury slowed his early development and limited his participation during training camp. Lemon remained involved through walkthroughs and mental repetitions, but those opportunities cannot entirely replace running routes against NFL defensive backs.
Sean Mannion’s new offense also requires every skill-position player to learn different alignments, route adjustments, and timing with Jalen Hurts. Lemon must absorb those responsibilities while adjusting to the league's speed and physicality. The Eagles do not need him to carry the passing game immediately. Smith is the established No. 1 receiver, while Hollywood Brown, Dontayvion Wicks, Dallas Goedert, Saquon Barkley and Elijah Moore give Hurts several experienced options. Lemon can still contribute as a rookie without becoming a finished product. Philadelphia’s challenge is to create a manageable role that lets him play confidently while continuing to develop.
Avant’s message is simple: Lemon’s draft status creates expectations, but his career should not be judged by his first few games.
This article originally appeared on Eagles Wire: Former Eagles' pass catcher urges patience with rookie WR Makai Lemon
