Previewing the Eagles wide receiver position where A.J. Brown is an All-Pro, Devonta Smith is top 10 and Jahan Dotson needs a breakout season
The Eagles are the reigning Super Bowl champions, and as we approach the 2025 NFL draft, this roster will look dramatically different after suffering several free-agent losses. Philadelphia suffered massive losses as the first wave of free agency saw Josh Sweat (Cardinals), Milton Williams (Patriots), Kenneth Gainwell (Steelers), Mekhi Becton (Chargers), Isaiah Rodgers (Vikings), Fred Johnson (Jaguars), Parris Campbell (Cowboys), Darius Slay (CB) and Oren Burks (Bengals) all depart.
Still, they rebounded to make several key signings, including A.J. Dillon (RB), Joshua Uche (LB), Adoree’ Jackson (CB), Charley Hughlett (LS), Patrick Johnson (LB), Avery Williams (KR/PR), Kylen Granson (TE), and Azeez Ojulari (OLB).
With the NFL draft fast approaching, we’re examining the wide receiver position as we continue with the Eagles Wire off-season previews.
What changed
The Eagles didn’t add any wide receivers during the free agency process, but saw Parris Campbell sign with the Cowboys, while Britain Covey remains an unrestricted free agent.
A.J. Brown
Despite missing three games due to injury, A.J. Brown led the team with 1,079 receiving yards. He also ranked 1st in receiving average (16.1) (min. 60 catches) and 3rd in receiving yards per game (83.0) (min. 13 games), behind Ja’Marr Chase (100.5) and Justin Jefferson (90.2).
Elijah Cooks
Cooks signed with the Eagles’ practice squad on Jan. 14 after spending most of the 2024 season on the Jaguars’ practice squad. The 26-year-old wideout will be on Philadelphia’s 90-man roster for the start of the new league year, which allows him to participate in OTAs, minicamps, and training camps.
Jahan Dotson
Dotson caught 19 of 33 targets for 216 yards in 17 regular-season games with the Eagles in 2024 after being acquired in a trade from Washington. He also rushed once for 13 yards. Despite his struggles, Dotson played 649 offensive snaps during the regular season for Philadelphia, working as a No. 3 receiver behind A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith. Dotson improved with time and had his most impactful game of the season during the Eagles’ win over Kansas City in Super Bowl LIX, with two catches for 42 yards on three targets. The 2022 first-round pick could have an increased role for the 2025 season if Philadelphia moves on from Goedert.
Danny Gray
Gray signed with the Eagles’ practice squad in mid-September after failing to make the 49ers’ 53-man roster at the end of training camp. He wasn’t elevated for a single game during the 2024 campaign, but by signing a future deal, Gray can participate in OTAs, minicamps, and training camps with the Eagles.
Ainias Smith
The rookie wideout caught four passes for 35 yards and a touchdown when the team rested its primary starters in Week 18. Still, he was a nonfactor on offense during his previous six appearances in the regular season and spent most of the season on the PUP list and injured reserve. He’ll enter 2025 looking to prove he can contribute to the passing game and special teams.
DeVonta Smith
DeVonta Smith posted a career-high 8 TDs in the regular season and hauled in a 46-yard TD in Super Bowl LIX. During the run to the Super Bowl, he became the franchise’s all-time leader in postseason receiving yards (595).
Johnny Wilson
Wilson, who was selected by the Eagles in the sixth round of last year’s NFL Draft, made 16 regular-season appearances during his rookie season in Philadelphia. Wilson finished with five catches for 38 yards and a touchdown. He played on more than 50 percent of Philadelphia’s offensive snaps just three times last season, and will look to carve out a role in 2025.
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