Philadelphia Eagles and Falcons Eye Kentucky CB Maxwell Hairston During Top 30 Visits
The Philadelphia Eagles revamped their secondary during the 2024 NFL Draft by selecting cornerbacks in the first and second rounds. However, with veteran defensive backs Darius Slay and Isaiah Rodgers departing via free agency, the Eagles now find themselves in need of more talent at the position. As part of their search for reinforcements, the Eagles have closely evaluated several top prospects, including Kentucky’s Maxwell Hairston, who recently visited their facilities as part of their Top 30 visit schedule.
At the same time, the Atlanta Falcons also welcomed Hairston to their headquarters, highlighting the increasing interest surrounding the standout cornerback as the 2025 NFL Draft approaches.
Eagles Target Hairston as a First-Round Prospect
Hairston, who played for three seasons at Kentucky, made a significant impact in 32 games, earning a reputation as a ball hawk. He recorded six interceptions—three of which he returned for touchdowns—along with 10 pass breakups and three forced fumbles. His ability to make plays on the ball positions him as an attractive option for teams looking to enhance their defensive playmaking.
In addition to his on-field production, Hairston impressed scouts at the NFL Combine, clocking an exceptional 4.29-second 40-yard dash. His rare speed, combined with his fluid movement and natural instincts, places him among the top cornerback prospects in this class. Currently ranked as a top-five player at his position and the No. 31 overall prospect, Hairston could become a key target for the Eagles, particularly if he’s available at pick No. 32.
Falcons Continue to Monitor Hairston’s Progress
Hairston’s recent visit to the Atlanta Falcons’ facility in Flowery Branch, Georgia, adds more fuel to the fire surrounding his rising draft stock. The Michigan native is widely projected to be a late first-round pick, but the Falcons’ draft position may pose a challenge in securing him.
Standing at 5-foot-11 and weighing 183 pounds, Hairston is not only fast but also demonstrates top-tier athleticism on the field. At the Combine, he ran a 4.28-second 40-yard dash, posted a 40-inch vertical jump, and displayed excellent footwork and hip fluidity during positional drills. Furthermore, Hairston served as Kentucky’s team captain in 2024 and earned second-team All-SEC honors on two occasions.
Despite his impressive attributes, Hairston’s aggressive playing style sometimes resulted in big plays for opposing offenses. According to Pro Football Focus, he allowed 12 receptions on 22 targets in 2024, surrendering 262 yards with an average of 21.8 yards per reception. His risk-taking approach could be a potential concern at the next level, but his overall skill set remains highly intriguing.
Draft Position and Potential Fit
With the Falcons holding the No. 15 pick, Hairston might be beyond their reach at that spot, and he is unlikely to be available when their second-round selection at No. 46 comes around. Meanwhile, the Eagles, picking at No. 32, may find Hairston to be a perfect fit to strengthen their reworked secondary.
Regardless of which team ultimately drafts him, Hairston’s elite speed, sharp instincts, and playmaking prowess make him one of the most exciting defensive prospects in this year’s class. Both Philadelphia and Atlanta are clearly paying close attention to him, and his Top 30 visits suggest that he is firmly on the radar of both teams as the draft nears.
