The Philadelphia Eagles made two surprise trades in the final week of the preseason. Adding receiver John Metchie and backup quarterback Sam Howell is typical of a savvy front office that never finds itself in a state of complacency. Even coming off a Super Bowl win, the Eagles have remained active in finding ways to lock up key players and improve their depth. The last two moves serve as an obvious example of this and gave hope of finding a surprise contributor.
For Metchie, it was a needed change of scenery and perhaps a chance to win a surprise role. There was reason to wonder if a huge final week could sway the Eagles into considering starting the receiver. It was always a long shot, but it isn't as if Jahan Dotson has been a consistent contributor. Metchie's speed and skill set are exactly what the Philly lineup is lacking.
Still, there is the expectation that the pass-catcher will start the season as the fourth option and have a chance to win a bigger role. Dotson has also benefitted from putting together a better camp and leaving room to wonder how much improvement Eagles fans can expect in year two.
New Eagles Receiver Will Be Philly's WR4 Heading into Week 1
This is ideal for the receiver in the fact that there are going to be very few expectations going into his first year with the franchise. All of the frustration and focus is going to be on whether or not Dotson begins to live up to expectations. Whatever Metchie can bring behind the team's starting trio is going to be viewed as a bonus.
With this in mind, it is a unique opportunity for a talented weapon to take a meaningful step forward. After falling short with Houston, you aren't going to find a better situation. The Eagles have a wealth of talent with Saquon Barkley, DeVonta Smith, and A.J. Brown all demanding attention. Add in the talent at tight end and the hypothetical production of Dotson, and the offense could easily be the league's best.
Offering Metchie not only the chance to breathe life back into his career but to contribute to a team that has a real chance of defending its title. No question, it was a great trade for the Eagles and a win for a receiver who has been given the perfect opportunity in Philly.