In a surprising intradivision trade, the Washington Commanders have traded former first-round draft pick Jahan Dotson to the division rivals Philadelphia Eagles in exchange for a 2025 third-round pick, two seventh-round picks for Dotson, and a 2025 fifth-round pick.
After the Eagles lost Johnny Wilson and John Ross to concussions, it became clear that the Eagles' WR3 spot needed reinforcement. Howie Roseman, Philadelphia's General Manager and Executive Vice President, demonstrated his strategic thinking by swiftly addressing the issue. He acquired Jahan Dotson from the Commanders in a calculated intradivision trade, seizing the opportunity to add a first-round talent still on his rookie deal, thereby enhancing the Eagles' receiving corps with a solid WR3.
The general management of the Philadelphia Eagles is familiar with Dotson from before. It was a player they did a lot of work for ahead of the 2022 NFL draft. During the draft process, they were interested in him, brought him in, and analyzed how he could fit into the team. From Dotson's perspective, his familiarity with Saquon Barkley from their time at Penn State is also expected to help him acclimate quickly in Philadelphia.
While the trade seemed like a clear win for the Eagles, it was a surprising move for Washington to strengthen an NFC East rival. This trade hands the Eagles a formidable lineup featuring A.J. Brown, DeVonta Smith, Dotson, Saquon Barkley, and Dallas Goedert.
When speaking about the trade, Roseman emphasized the complexities of trading players within the division. He acknowledged that the Commanders have no intention of helping their opponents, so concerns are always attached to these intradivision trades. However, Roseman's confidence in the deal was bolstered by his respect and past experiences with Adam Peters, Washington's General Manager, which reassured him about the trade.
This late acquisition significantly bolsters the Eagles' playoff chances, making them serious contenders for the Super Bowl. With one of the strongest WR trios in the NFL, featuring A.J. Brown, DeVonta Smith, and Dotson, the Eagles are poised for a promising season.
Prior to the trade, according to American sportsbook odds, the Philadelphia Eagles were priced at +1600 to win, or a 5.90% chance of winning the Super Bowl when converted to implied probability. After the trade, they went down +1400 to win, a 6.70% chance. They went from the ninth most likely team to win to a respectable fifth position in the rankings according to the sportsbook odds (using the average odds from leading US sportsbooks). Kansas City Chiefs are still the top contenders for the Super Bowl at +500 odds, with a 16.70% chance to become repeat winners next season.
The Eagles have made several impactful moves this off-season, including the trade for Dotson and the hiring of offensive coordinator Kellen Moore. Moore's arrival is anticipated to inject creativity into the Eagles' offense, particularly with integrating Dotson, who is expected to excel in the slot receiver role.
Dotson, who struggled with inconsistent quarterback play during his time with the Commanders, has shown potential with over 500 receiving yards in his first two seasons. His speed, agility, and ability to perform well in the slot should enhance the Eagles' offensive efficiency. With Brown and Smith already established as top-tier receivers, Dotson's addition will likely create a more dynamic and unpredictable offense.
—Lance Fernandez