Philadelphia, PA – April 24, 2025 – The Philadelphia Eagles have made a bold financial decision, declining the fifth-year option on wide receiver Jahan Dotson’s contract, valued at $16.8 million for 2026, sources confirmed to ESPN’s Adam Schefter. The move, finalized ahead of the May 2 deadline, frees up significant cap space and signals GM Howie Roseman’s intent to reshape the roster as the Eagles chase a second straight Super Bowl title.
Dotson, acquired from the Washington Commanders in August 2024, recorded 49 receptions, 568 yards, and 4 touchdowns in 17 games during the Eagles’ 14-3 Super Bowl LIX campaign. While his speed (4.43-second 40-yard dash) and PFF receiving grade of 72.4 added depth behind A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith, his inconsistent production as a WR3 didn’t justify the hefty option price. “Jahan’s a talent, but we need flexibility,” Roseman said.
The decision aligns with Roseman’s aggressive offseason, marked by signing Ndamukong Suh and trading for Travon Walker to offset losses like Josh Sweat and Milton Williams. With $60 million in 2025 cap space, declining Dotson’s option—set to balloon the cap hit from $3.1 million in 2025 to $16.8 million in 2026—preserves funds for extensions like Quinyon Mitchell’s or free-agent targets such as Budda Baker.
Dotson, 25, now faces a prove-it year in 2025, his final season under the rookie deal (4 years, $15.05 million). A breakout could earn him a new contract, but underperformance risks free agency in 2026. “He’s got to step up,” coach Nick Sirianni said. The Eagles’ depth at receiver, with Brown and Smith locked in through 2028, softens the blow.
The 2025 NFL Draft, starting today in Green Bay, offers Roseman a chance to bolster the edges with Shemar Stewart at pick No. 32 or draft a tight end like Harold Fannin Jr. to replace Dallas Goedert, whose trade rumors persist. “This opens doors,” NFL Network’s Daniel Jeremiah noted. As Philadelphia eyes another ring, Roseman’s calculated gamble underscores his knack for balancing talent and finances.
