Dave Spadaro

The "family" feel is what Smael Mondon experienced instantly when the Eagles selected him in the fifth round of the 2025 NFL Draft. A linebacker from the University of Georgia who has been part of some of the best collegiate defenses ever, Mondon was already familiar with the way the Eagles do business, having stayed in touch with many of his former Georgia teammates who are now in Philadelphia. That has helped the transition for Mondon, as he talks about in this 3 Questions With.

1. How has the introduction to the Eagles been for you?

Mondon:"It's gone great, and it's just starting. Every day is something new. I'm learning a lot and that's the way it is going to be. My mindset is that I'm here to work. I'm here to do whatever the coaches ask me to do. I'm one of those guys who puts his head down and works. That's about it. The more work I put in, the more I'm going to get out of it. That's the way I've always been."

2. What do you think will be your biggest transition to the NFL?

Mondon:"Being in the present. It's me here. Whatever I do, it's my responsibility. I am here to win a job and help this team win as many games as possible. It's different than in college, where you have a scholarship and you're there. There is nothing guaranteed for me here. It's a cut-throat business. You've got to be on point every minute of the day. You can't let down. My Georgia guys, when we've talked in the past and now, that's a message: Be on point. You are being watched at all times."

3. What is the part of your situation right now that you are most looking forward to?

Mondon:"I'm not looking ahead. Right now, we're on the way to practice and I am looking forward to being out on the field and being with the team, getting the football in. I love the game and I want to be the best player I can be. So, I guess that is what I'm most looking forward to."