Jahan Dotson, recently traded from the Washington Commanders to the Philadelphia Eagles, has subtly hinted at his desire for revenge against his former team. The trade, which sent Dotson to Philadelphia along with a 2024 fifth-round pick, saw the Commanders receive a 2025 third-round pick and two seventh-round picks in return.
Reflecting on the move, Dotson expressed his surprise, stating, “It was a shock, you know? Just because all I know in the NFL is Washington Commanders. But at the end of the day, it’s a business, and I understand that very much so … I’m not gonna take it personal until I see Washington.”
Dotson, the No. 16 overall pick in the 2022 draft out of Penn State, had a promising start with 35 catches for 523 yards and seven touchdowns in his rookie season. However, his second season saw limited progress, with 49 catches for 518 yards and four touchdowns. The Commanders decided to move on from Dotson, opting instead to focus on new talent such as Luke McCaffrey, a former quarterback turned receiver, and Dyami Brown, who showed potential last season.
The trade suggests the Commanders were ready to move on from Dotson, possibly believing he wasn’t worth the investment for the long term. This decision could also reflect their confidence in their emerging talent and their need to clear space under the salary cap.
Dotson will have multiple opportunities to make a statement against the Commanders this season. The first chance will come in Week 11 when the Eagles host the Commanders on November 14 at 8:15 p.m. EST. He will face them again in Week 16 on December 22 at 1 p.m. EST. Before those showdowns, Dotson will debut for the Eagles in their season opener against the Green Bay Packers on September 6 at 8:15 p.m. EST, which will be the NFL’s first-ever game in Brazil.