The Philadelphia Eagles have bolstered their offense by acquiring wide receiver Jahan Dotson from the Washington Commanders, sending a third-round pick and two seventh-round picks in the deal. This move addresses the team’s need for a reliable third wide receiver alongside A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith.
Since the Eagles signed star running back Saquon Barkley to a lucrative three-year, $37.75 million contract earlier this free agency period, there had been questions regarding the team’s receiving options. While veterans Parris Campbell, John Ross, Britain Covey, and rookie Johnny Wilson competed for playing time, none managed to assert themselves as the clear third option during training camp.
At just 24 years old, Dotson looks poised to step into that role. In his two seasons with the Commanders, he has amassed 84 receptions for 1,041 yards and 11 touchdowns, despite being hindered by a fluctuating quarterback situation that included Carson Wentz, Taylor Heinicke, and Sam Howell. Although he has demonstrated potential—showing flashes of brilliance since being drafted 16th overall out of Penn State in 2022—his overall performance has suffered from inconsistency. Last season, he ranked low in targets per route run and yards per route run, while also grappling with a notable drop rate.
In Philadelphia, Dotson’s opportunities may be limited as the offense heavily relies on Brown, Smith, and tight end Dallas Goedert, along with plans to incorporate Barkley into the passing game. However, the Eagles’ offensive coordinator Kellen Moore aims to rotate receivers more frequently, creating mismatches and leveraging Dotson’s strengths. With proven speed, having clocked a 4.43-second 40-yard dash at the combine, Dotson has the potential to stretch the field, opening avenues for the other skilled playmakers.
There is a possibility that receiver A.J. Brown advocated for Dotson, as the two had trained together during the offseason in Florida. Dotson has acknowledged Brown’s impact on his training, emphasizing their competitive spirit during workouts.
While the Eagles invested significant draft capital in Dotson, they still have a solid selection of picks remaining for the 2025 draft. The Commanders’ decision to let go of Dotson, just two years into his rookie deal, suggests he fell short of expectations, particularly in securing a solid second receiver spot next to Terry McLaurin during training camp.
In Philadelphia, Dotson’s primary responsibility will be to keep defensive backs honest and capitalize on the chances that come his way.