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How surprised are you by Willie Lampkin’s NFL rise?

Willie Lampkin defied expectations to become the shortest offensive lineman in the Philadelphia Eagles’ starting lineup in nearly seven decades. Standing at just 5’11” and weighing 290 pounds, Lampkin’s physical stature is well below the NFL’s average for guards or defensive tackles, yet he earned a starting role after a standout college career at UNC.

His journey from an undrafted free agent—despite earning All-ACC and first-team All-American honors—to a waiver pickup by the Eagles highlights an underdog story that culminated in his debut start against the Jacksonville Jaguars in London. The Eagles’ offensive line, now led by Lampkin, marks the first time since 1957 that a player under six feet has started at the position for the franchise, tracing back to Terry Long of the Pittsburgh Steelers in the late 1980s.

Lampkin’s path included a preseason opportunity with the Los Angeles Rams before landing on Philadelphia’s practice squad, where he spent last season recovering from an injury. His performance Sunday underscored the value of perseverance in a league where size often dictates opportunity.

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