PHILADELPHIA — The Philadelphia Eagles have made a significant move by acquiring star running back Saquon Barkley, signing him to a three-year, $37.75 million contract at the beginning of free agency in March. Receiver Jahan Dotson responded to this on social media, playfully asking, “Whose MUT team is this?” referencing Madden Ultimate Team.
Dotson is now set to enhance the Eagles’ roster, as Philadelphia traded a third-round pick and two seventh-round picks to the Washington Commanders for Dotson and a 2025 fifth-round pick. This acquisition addresses one of the last gaps in their offensive lineup.
The Eagles had been on the lookout for a reliable third wide receiver to complement stars A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith. Various veterans, including Parris Campbell, John Ross, and Britain Covey, along with rookie Johnny Wilson, had shared first-team reps throughout training camp, but none stood out significantly.
At 24 years old, Dotson emerges as the frontrunner for the WR3 position. He recorded 84 receptions for 1,041 yards and 11 touchdowns over two seasons with Washington, contending with multiple quarterbacks, including Carson Wentz, Taylor Heinicke, and Sam Howell.
While Dotson has displayed flashes of brilliance since being picked 16th overall in the 2022 draft from Penn State, his performance has been inconsistent. He ranked near the bottom among wide receivers last season in targets per route run and yards per route run, as well as having a notable drop percentage.
In Philadelphia, Dotson will need to seize what are anticipated to be limited opportunities, as the passing offense predominantly revolves around Brown, Smith, and tight end Dallas Goedert, along with plans to involve Barkley in the passing game as well.
However, there is optimism that Dotson will fit in well. Offensive coordinator Kellen Moore has indicated intentions to rotate receivers more this season, which could create advantageous matchups. Dotson is best utilized in the slot but has the capability to play outside as well. His speed, clocked at 4.43 seconds in the 40-yard dash at the combine, is expected to attract defensive attention, opening up more space for the Eagles’ offensive talents.
Brown likely endorsed Dotson during the trade talks, as the two have trained together in the offseason at Florida Atlantic University, where Brown has acknowledged Dotson’s impact on his speed training.
Though the Eagles invested valuable draft capital in acquiring Dotson, they retained one third-round pick in the 2025 draft. General manager Howie Roseman still has seven total picks to work with in that draft year.
Washington’s choice to part ways with Dotson, especially with two years left on his rookie contract, suggests he hasn’t met expectations in his role. However, in Philadelphia, his responsibilities will focus on keeping defenses honest and stepping up when needed.