The Washington Commanders have decided to trade wide receiver Jahan Dotson, a recent first-round draft pick, to the Philadelphia Eagles. In return, the Commanders will receive a third-round pick and two seventh-round picks, along with sending a fifth-round pick to the Eagles. The Eagles confirmed the transaction on Thursday morning.
This decision follows comments from head coach Dan Quinn, who mentioned that several players, including Dotson, were competing for the No. 2 receiver position behind Terry McLaurin. Dotson’s inability to make a significant impact, despite being a highly touted draft choice, raised concerns about his future with the team.
During his two seasons with Washington, Dotson recorded 35 catches for 523 yards and seven touchdowns in his first year, and 49 catches for 517 yards and four touchdowns in the second year. His average yards per reception, yards per game, target rate, and yards per route run all saw a decline in Year 2.
With Dotson’s departure, the Commanders are expected to rely on third-round pick Luke McCaffrey, Olamide Zaccheaus, and Dyami Brown to support McLaurin in the receiving corps. Additionally, No. 2 overall pick Jayden Daniels will target tight ends Zach Ertz and rookie Ben Sinnott, along with running back options Brian Robinson Jr. and Austin Ekeler.
The Eagles are looking to harness Dotson’s potential as a former first-round pick at a low cost. They have been in search of a reliable No. 3 receiver to complement A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith. Earlier this offseason, they signed DeVante Parker, who retired before ever playing a game for them. The Eagles have struggled to find consistent production from wide receivers other than Brown and Smith in recent years, and Dotson’s addition could help address this issue.
In evaluating the trade:
Commanders: D-
This trade is largely viewed as a loss for Washington. Dotson was a first-round pick just two years ago but had two disappointing seasons with the team, and the lack of a strong quarterback may have hindered his performance. Receiving only a pick swap and two seventh-round selections in exchange for him is seen as a significant letdown.
Eagles: B
On the other hand, while the Eagles are acquiring a player who hasn’t yet proven himself as a reliable No. 3 receiver, the low cost of the deal makes it worthwhile. Dotson’s college success suggests potential, and even if he fails to make a notable impact, the trade is still deemed a solid decision given the minimal investment.