One of the more interesting upcoming groups of offseason decisions facing the Philadelphia Eagles is how the receiver room will look heading into the 2026 season. It isn't exactly a secret that star receiver A.J. Brown has put his future into question; however, it isn't just Brown that could be in a new landing spot, with third receiver Jahan Dotson set to hit free agency at the end of the 2025 season. Dotson's rookie contract is set to expire, giving the pass-catcher his first real chance to explore the market.
The only reason to do this from Dotson's perspective is if the familiarity and chance at Super Bowl contention outweigh the more lucrative deals likely awaiting the pass catcher in free agency. While Dotson has struggled in Philly, his potential could be limited due to his sharing the field with Brown and DeVonta Smith.
Even if he hasn't produced much since joining the Eagles, Dotson will likely be looking for a payday in the offseason. He's only 25 years old, so chances are he'll try to get a team — the Eagles or someone else — to give him a notable raise from his rookie contract. If he wants to stay in Philly, though, he'll need to temper expectations.
Jahan Dotson Can't Return to Eagles without a Bargain Deal
Dotson was traded from the Washington Commanders to Philly ahead of the 2024 season for a third-round pick and two seventh-round picks. At the time, it appeared to be a great deal with Dotson piling up well over 1,000 yards in his first two years in the league. In the time since, Dotson has managed only 422 yards in 29 games with the Eagles.
Dotson did produce in his first two seasons in the league, crossing 500 yards both years with a combination of Taylor Heinicke, Carson Wentz, Sam Howell, and Jacoby Brissett all taking turns under center. Yet, he's been unable to consistently produce with Jalen Hurts as his quarterback, which is why the Eagles likely won't bring him back unless he returns on an annual cap hit lower than he saw this season ($1.4 million, per Spotrac).
While Philadelphia has far more important decisions to make with Reed Blankenship and Dallas Goedert slated to hit free agency at the end of the 2025 season, whether or not the team opts to bring back Dotson is an interesting subplot. If he reaches his perceived potential, he could easily be the WR3 next year. At the same time, little about what he's done suggests he will get there.
All eyes will be on Dotson down the final stretch of the season. If he truly wants to be paid like one of the NFL's top young WRs, it's time for him to perform like one.