Latest news with #JahanDotson


USA Today
3 days ago
- Sport
- USA Today
Surging Eagles receivers may eventually put pressure on younger teammates
The emergence of lesser-mentioned Eagles receivers may complicate two young incumbents' chances of making the 53-man roster. Occasional glances at the Philadelphia Eagles' roster keep bringing us back to a theory that most Birds enthusiasts won't mind repeating. 'Damn, this team is loaded'. There are arguably stars at every position, but as is the case with every other team, some areas need depth. After all, an NFL season is a challenging journey: 18 weeks, 17 games, and, if fortunate, the top performers qualify for postseason play, where the competition is fiercer and the weather is harsher than during the regular season. People often discuss Philadelphia's offense, and for good reason. Their quarterback is the reigning Super Bowl MVP. Their offensive line is the best in the business. Pro Football Focus believes the same is true of their receiving corps. PFF's theory involves Dallas Goedert, a tight end, but even though the consensus is that there is a massive drop-off in talent (which there is), the Eagles may field a deeper receiving corps than they are given credit for. Philadelphia declined Jahan Dotson's fifth-year option, but he's a solid third option at wide receiver. There's something else to consider, though. The emergence of two veterans may make it difficult for two second-year stars when we begin discussing final roster cuts. Don't be shocked if second-year WR Johnny Wilson plays himself off the Eagles' 53-man roster. Every year in training camp, we play the numbers game. It's probably too early for this, but let's do some roster crunching now. Philadelphia is expected to keep about six wide receivers on the 53-man roster. That's typically how they do business, and the league average. A.J. Brown, DeVonta Smith, and Jahan Dotson are making this team. That means the other nine guys they are bringing to camp are, in all likelihood, competing for the final three spots. Danny Gray won a Super Bowl ring as a practice squad member last February, but his experience also gives him an edge on some of the new faces, one being newly acquired Terrace Marshall. The latter's career didn't work out in Carolina, but he and Gray did themselves a lot of favors with standout moments at OTAs and mandatory minicamp. If the Eagles like Gray and Marshall a lot, which seems like a reasonable and truthful observation. We've already got five names. Depending on how Ainias Smith and Johnny Wilson perform, they could be in a heap of trouble come final cuts. Philadelphia likes Wilson's size. Heck, they've been obsessed with finding big targets for several seasons now, but Wilson doesn't catch the ball very well, which isn't something you'd like to hear about a young wide receiver. Smith was supposed to be more valuable because he was expected to be a wideout who provided value on special teams as a punt returner. The truth is he's mediocre at both. It's year two for Smith and Wilson, the NFL equivalent of a sophomore season. Circle their names and add a note. Both of these young men are valuable and likeable. Still, despite being drafted nearly 14 months ago, neither is assured of a roster spot and may be on a collision course with the Eagles' 16-man practice squad.
Yahoo
19-06-2025
- Sport
- Yahoo
Eagles Trade Could Flop As Receiver Being Phased Out
Eagles Trade Could Flop As Receiver Being Phased Out originally appeared on Athlon Sports. The Philadelphia Eagles have a well-earned reputation as a franchise that makes daring acquisitions ... with big payoffs. Advertisement Jahan Dotson — with a future uncertain heading into the 2025 season — has not been one of the "big payoff'' names. Philly first declined his fifth-year option in April, making him a free agent after this season. So he might not have a long-term future here. And what about the short term? The Eagles traded for Dotson from the division rival Washington Commanders a year ago, sending a third-round pick and two seventh-rounders for the former first-round selection. It seemed a steep price. But what if Dotson realized his potential here? But no. In 17 regular-season games, he managed just 19 receptions for 216 yards and no TDs. Advertisement He is capable of more; as a rookie with Washington, he caught 35 passes for 523 yards and seven touchdowns. But here? A.J. Brown (27) and DeVonta Smith (26) are the top guys. Johnny Wilson, at 6-foot-6 and 235 pounds, may be coming on. And the same with Ainias Smith from the Texas A&M Aggies. Terrace Marshall Jr., Avery Williams, Elijah Cooks and Danny Gray are also available to fill out the roster. Training camp will matter here. Brown and Smith do plenty, and Philly can rely on Saquon Barkley and Jalen Hurts in the running game and more. But a third receiver was the idea of that trade ... Advertisement And right now that trade looks like a rare flop from GM Howie Roseman. Related: ESPN Links Eagles To Possible Signing of Asante Samuel Jr. This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jun 19, 2025, where it first appeared.


USA Today
16-06-2025
- Sport
- USA Today
The wait may be over for Jahan Dotson's breakout NFL season
The wait may be over for Jahan Dotson's breakout NFL season Jahan Dotson looks to cash in with a breakout NFL season four years in the making. It has often been said that football is a game of inches, and it is. That has been proven time and time again at every level. Think about something for a second. If so many controversial discussions can be born by discussing inches, think how the field expands if we begin mentioning yards. Had Jahan Dotson's knee hit the turf one yard further than it had during his first catch in Super Bowl 59, he would have scored the Philadelphia Eagles' first touchdown in football's biggest game. Being stopped one yard short of the goal also prevented the Tennessee Titans from lining up to kick a potential game-tying field goal in Super Bowl 34. Instead, what was then Dick Vermeil's Saint Louis Rams raised the Vince Lombardi Trophy as Philadelphia fans celebrated for their former head coach but wondered when it might be their turn. Jahan Dotson looks to transform a career marred by 'what ifs' and unfulfilled potential into one of breakouts and highlight-reel moments It's year two for Jahan Dotson with the Eagles, and again, it feels like we're talking about thin lines and margins for error. His career, at this point, is seen as a collection of 'what ifs', unfulfilled promises, and near-misses. He has a new look for the Birds. He'll be wearing the Number 2 jersey, one previously worn by Darius Slay. Philadelphia abandoned its seemingly ever-present desire for an air-raid offense last season and adopted a run-first approach. No one would deny that decision worked out very well for them. Saquon Barkley became the ninth player in NFL history to join the 2,000-Yard Club. He also won Offensive Player of the Year honors. There's another side to that coin, though. Philadelphia worked him to the bone as he led the league in both carries (345) and touches (378) while leading the Eagles to a Super Bowl win. Exceeding 300 regular-season carries in one season is a big ask, especially when one factors in Philadelphia's starters sitting out in Week 18. That's why many have adopted the theory that, even though it seems ridiculous to hand Saquon the ball less often, that may be wise if the goal is to keep him fresh for what everyone hopes is another postseason run. Which brings us back to Jahan Dotson... An offense that doesn't air it out very often can't be surprised when the fourth option/third receiver doesn't receive many targets. However, as many are thinking, in a more balanced attack, things could change for Dotson during his second season in Eagles green. Much of the media, many fans, and several voices on Philadelphia sports radio are in favor of an expanded role. The Inquirer's Jeff McLane even made mention this offseason of him catching "every pass" he logged during three open workouts. Nick Sirianni has always been frank in stating the offensive attack runs through Jalen Hurts, A.J., DeVonta Smith, Saquon Barkley, and Dallas Goedert (as it should), but their WR3, Dotson, could enjoy more looks if Jalen is asked to air the ball out more. Jahan has enjoyed some chemistry with Hurts since his arrival, and thanks to his familiarity with the offense, discussions around camp center around him being more relaxed and off to a better start than he was when he arrived in the City of Brotherly Love last offseason. Don't expect 60 catches or more. Don't bank on a long-term, high-dollar extension being offered at season's end. After all, Philadelphia declined the fifth-year option on his rookie contract. This could be a massive year for Dotson by simply making the most of his opportunities when they come his way. That request seems feasible because, though this isn't discussed very often, no one would be wrong by stating that Philadelphia could do a lot worse than employing Jahan Dotson as the third wide receiver on their roster. He's going to do fine for this team this season.
Yahoo
13-06-2025
- Sport
- Yahoo
These Eagles stood out at OTAs − and these didn't, including a safety vying to start
PHILADELPHIA − There was little chance that the Eagles would get answers during the spring practices on some of their most burning questions at the few open positions that they have. That was especially true this year because the Eagles shortened their organized team activities to six sessions over two weeks instead of the maximum of 10 over three weeks. In addition, the Eagles had only one mandatory minicamp workout, as opposed to a maximum of three. Advertisement Still, there was plenty to glean from players who stood out in the three practices open in their entirety to the media − and those who did not. But the Eagles aren't ready to answer who the starter is at right guard; at outside cornerback opposite of Quinyon Mitchell; at safety next to Reed Blankenship; or at linebacker next to Zack Baun if Nakobe Dean and/or rookie Jihaad Campbell aren't ready for Week 1. Those battles, no doubt, will pick up in intensity when training camp begins on July 22. SAQUON TALKS: Saquon Barkley takeaways: Eagles RB talks retirement, and why he had to 'sit my(self) down' Advertisement LUZARDO'S LESSON: What Phillies' Jesus Luzardo taught phenom Andrew Painter about handling 2 dreadful starts "We don't have to make any of those decisions quite yet," Eagles coach Nick Sirianni said when asked about the right guard battle. "We have a lot of football to practice, a lot of football to play, and obviously, a big part of the offensive line and the evaluation of the offensive line comes in pads. "That doesn't mean we're not evaluating them like crazy right now. But a big part of that's going to come when we put the pads on." Here, then, is a look at the players who stood out during the spring − and those who need to step it up when training camp begins: Philadelphia Eagles wide receiver Jahan Dotson (2) receives a pass during a practice drill at NovaCare Complex during mandatory minicamp on June 10, 2025. Eagles standouts in OTAs, minicamp Terrace Marshall, wide receiver: We know that the top three wide receivers will be A.J. Brown, DeVonta Smith and Jahan Dotson. But Marshall, a 2021 second-round pick of the Panthers who spent last season bouncing around the 49ers and Raiders practice squads, has been perhaps the most impressive wide receiver so far. He could challenge either 2024 draftee Ainias Smith or Johnny Wilson for a roster spot. Kelee Ringo, cornerback: Adoree Jackson called Ringo "a freak of nature" earlier this spring, and Ringo certainly showed that he will be in contention to start at outside cornerback. On one play, Ringo broke up a pass in the end zone intended for Marshall. The grain-of-salt part comes with the fact that both Brown and Smith participated only in team drills, on a limited basis, in the one minicamp practice. Jalyx Hunt, edge rusher: Hunt got plenty of first-team reps with Nolan Smith sitting out team drills as he recovers from a torn triceps suffered during the Super Bowl. But Hunt showed that he's getting only better after a strong finish to his rookie season. After one rush in minicamp, Hunt had left tackle Jordan Mailata swearing at himself. Kyle McCord, quarterback: The Eagles have drafted quarterbacks in late rounds or even signed as undrafted free agent in the past. But none, including current backup Tanner McKee, looked as poised in their first minicamp as McCord. His one TD pass to tight end Nick Muse (watch out for him, too) was thrown on a line, only where Muse could catch it, as he had a defender all over him. McCord should pass Dorian Thompson-Robinson as the third QB in training camp − if he hasn't already. Jahan Dotson, wide receiver: Dotson's status as the third wide receiver was never in doubt. But Dotson is clearly much more comfortable in the offense, building off his strong playoff performances. If that continues through training camp, Dotson should be more of a factor this season than he was last season, when he had just 19 receptions. Jeremiah Trotter, linebacker: This is almost by default since both Dean and Campbell might not be ready for Week 1. But how Trotter performs, as well as rookie Smael Mondon, could influence whether the Eagles sign a veteran free agent to play next to Zack Baun. "I think his overall feel for the game (is better)," Baun said about Trotter. "He's always had the instincts, but being in this scheme for a year (helps)." Eagles offensive lineman Tyler Steen (56) joins other members of the offense in warmups as the Philadelphia Eagles work out in preparation for the Super Bowl at the NovaCare Complex in Philadelphia, Pa. Friday, Jan. 31, 2025. Eagles who need to step up in camp Tyler Steen/Kenyon Green, right guard: Perhaps it's expecting too much for one player to separate himself in the spring, considering that the Eagles aren't in pads. But Steen, the front-runner, was called for a false start on one minicamp snap, drawing the ire of OL coach Jeff Stoutland. And Green, the former first-round pick who was acquired in the C.J. Gardner-Johnson deal, was getting some work with the third team at left guard. If one of them doesn't grab the spot in training camp, look to veteran Matt Pryor or perhaps rookie center Drew Kendall. Brett Toth, center: With Cam Jurgens recovering from back surgery, Toth got the first-team reps at center. It didn't go particularly well as he bounced two snaps to Jalen Hurts, thus killing the plays. The Eagles drafted Kendall as a backup center, so keep an eye on the second-team battle in training camp. It appears to be Kendall's to lose. Advertisement Celebrate the Eagles' Super Bowl win with our new book Sydney Brown, safety: Like at right guard, Brown did not separate from second-round pick Andrew Mukuba. Brown fell down on one play in minicamp, leading to a completion at the sideline. Keep in mind that defensive coordinator Vic Fangio said nickel Cooper DeJean could play safety when the Eagles are in base defense about 15% of the time. Mukuba still has a lot to learn, so this battle will intensify in camp. Ainias Smith, wide receiver: Smith has looked better this spring than he did as an overmatched rookie last season. But the Eagles brought in more competition at wide receiver. And they'd like to limit DeJean's touches as a punt returner. They couldn't trust Smith to do it last season, and they brought in Avery Williams this spring to contend for that role. This is a big camp for Smith. Contact Martin Frank at mfrank@ Follow on X @Mfranknfl. Read his coverage of the Eagles' championship season in 'Flying High,' a new hardcover coffee-table book from Delaware Online/The News Journal. Details at This article originally appeared on Delaware News Journal: Eagles who stood out and those who didn't during OTAs, minicamp
Yahoo
21-05-2025
- Sport
- Yahoo
Tush push isn't what makes the Eagles great, but it makes them even tougher to beat
In Super Bowl LIX, a replay review early in the game showed that Philadelphia Eagles receiver Jahan Dotson was just short of a touchdown, down at the 1-yard line. Everyone knew what was coming next. And everyone knew it wasn't going to be stopped. That's what bothered the rest of the NFL. The NFL did not take away the Eagles' cheat code. In a proposal brought forth by the Green Bay Packers, there were 22 teams that voted to ban the tush push, a play that everyone is allowed to run but only the Eagles have nearly perfected. But 24 votes were needed, so it failed. Just like that Super Bowl tush push touchdown by Jalen Hurts after Dotson was stopped, the Eagles got across the goal line. As always. The vote was hardly about injury risk — if the NFL banned all football plays that could lead to injuries, Sundays would be 22 players standing around looking at each other across the field — but rather jealousy, frustration and resentment. The right call was made. Even if it helps keep the Eagles at the top of the NFL. The tush push isn't the reason the Eagles are Super Bowl champions, or probably even in the top 10 reasons. The Eagles had the best defense in the NFL last season. Saquon Barkley had perhaps the greatest single season a running back has ever had. Philadelphia has tremendous receivers, a good offensive line and practically no weakness. They were 16-1 after September and it wasn't because of one play. But a proposal to ban a Barkley toss play, an A.J. Brown go route or Jalen Carter blowing up the pocket by bull rushing a guard would have been ridiculous. There were 22 teams that weren't as ashamed to vote to ban a play the Eagles have happened to master. There is clearly a big advantage for the Eagles. They succeed 87% of the time on the tush push. The rest of the league is at just 71%. That kind of efficiency is huge in short-yardage situations to keep drives going. That doesn't mean the play should be illegal. But it certainly is a big boost for a team when it knows it will pick up nearly every fourth-and-1 or goal-line play. The Eagles are so good at the tush push, it has become synonymous with them. Every team is allowed to run it, but it was former Eagles center Jason Kelce at the NFL's spring meeting stumping to not ban the play. Any of the 22 teams that voted to rid the league of the play are allowed to get the personnel required to be great at the play, or to practice it until it's automatic, but it was the Eagles doing a victory lap on social media after the play survived. That's partially because the Eagles know what it means for them going forward. Perhaps some team will unlock the answer key to stopping it, though you'd think that would have happened by now. Or the rest of the league will figure out better ways to run it and get as good at it as Philadelphia, negating the Eagles' advantage. Until then, a team that ran away with a Super Bowl championship still has a play for critical situations that they run at a much higher success rate than any other team. There will be plenty of moments this season, like that first touchdown of Super Bowl LIX, in which the Eagles get into a short-yardage situation and the opponent will be deflated before Philadelphia even lines up. It's a mental edge as much as a physical edge for Philadelphia. Look at how the frustrated Washington Commanders lost their minds trying to jump over the line repeatedly in the NFC championship game, an embarrassing moment for them in a big game. But they had no other option because they knew they couldn't stop the play. Nobody has been able to. Just imagine how excited the Eagles will be to run the tush push for the first time on Nov. 10. That happens to be the first time they face the Packers this season.