Eagles Hosting Little-Known 'Swiss Army Knife' Receiver

North Dakota State's Raja Nelson to have private workout with Philadelphia

Mar. 21, 2026 at 12:36pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The Philadelphia Eagles are taking a look at wide receiver prospect Raja Nelson out of North Dakota State University, who is described as a "Swiss Army Knife" due to his versatility as both a receiver and running back. Nelson is not a highly-ranked draft prospect, but the Eagles are hosting him for a private workout as they look to add depth at the wide receiver position ahead of the 2026 NFL Draft.

Why it matters

The Eagles have already added one wide receiver this offseason, but scouting lesser-known prospects like Nelson could pay dividends later in the draft or as an undrafted free agent. Nelson's versatility as both a receiver and running back makes him an intriguing option for the Eagles, who may be able to find value in a player that isn't on the radar of many other teams.

The details

Nelson racked up 1,306 total receiving yards over his six-year college career at North Dakota State, with his best season coming in 2025 when he had 28 catches for 404 yards and 4 touchdowns. He also showed his versatility in 2023 when he had 302 rushing yards and 2 rushing touchdowns to go along with 31 receptions for 388 yards and 2 receiving touchdowns. The Eagles are hosting Nelson for a private workout on Saturday as they evaluate options to add depth at the wide receiver position ahead of the 2026 NFL Draft.

  • The Eagles will host Raja Nelson for a private workout on Saturday, March 21, 2026.

The players

Raja Nelson

A wide receiver prospect out of North Dakota State University who is described as a "Swiss Army Knife" due to his versatility as both a receiver and running back.

Philadelphia Eagles

An NFL team that has already added one wide receiver this offseason and is now looking to add depth at the position ahead of the 2026 NFL Draft.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“North Dakota State slot receiver Raja Nelson talked with Saints, Giants, Vikings at Pro Day. Private workout Eagles Saturday. Had 28 catches, 404 yards, four touchdowns, 21.0 yards per return. Key contributor to national championship runs. Described as a Swiss Army knife due to his versatility.”

— Aaron Wilson, Reporter

What’s next

The Eagles will evaluate Raja Nelson's performance in the private workout on Saturday to determine if he is a potential late-round draft pick or undrafted free agent target for the team.

The takeaway

The Eagles are leaving no stone unturned in their search for wide receiver depth, taking a look at a lesser-known prospect in Raja Nelson who could provide value as a versatile "Swiss Army Knife" type of player. While Nelson may not be a highly-ranked draft prospect, his combination of receiving and rushing production makes him an intriguing developmental option for the Eagles to consider.