The Eagles are gearing up to defend their Super Bowl title, and in classic Howie Roseman fashion, the roster continues to evolve. Philadelphia’s GM has built his reputation on constant tinkering – he’s never content with the status quo, even when it’s championship-caliber.
Philly’s offense looks loaded at the top. Jalen Hurts is firmly entrenched as the franchise QB, new addition Saquon Barkley brings star power to the backfield, and that dominant O-line remains intact. The one-two punch of A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith gives the Birds one of the NFL’s most lethal receiver duos – but after them, things get a bit thin.
The WR3 spot has belonged to Jahan Dotson since his arrival last season.
While Dotson isn’t at risk of being cut, the Eagles clearly wanted more competition in the receivers room. On Sunday, they pulled the trigger on a trade with Houston, acquiring wideout John Metchie III from the Texans. Philadelphia sent tight end Harrison Bryant to Houston, with the teams also swapping late-round picks to complete the deal.
Full trade:
🏈Texans receive: TE Harrison Bryant and a 5th-round pick.
🏈Eagles receive: WR John Metchie and a 6th-round pick.— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) August 17, 2025
Metchie Brings Pedigree and Something to Prove
Let’s be clear – this isn’t a blockbuster move that’ll dominate SportsCenter. The Texans found themselves in a bind after losing tight end Brevin Jordan for the 2025 campaign. They needed TE help, the Eagles had Bryant available, and Metchie was the cost of doing business.
But don’t sleep on Metchie’s potential. The former Alabama standout was considered a premium prospect in the 2022 draft class. During his three years with the Crimson Tide, he racked up 155 catches, 2,081 yards and 14 TDs – including time as DeVonta Smith’s teammate during their national championship run.
Metchie’s NFL journey has been anything but smooth. He missed his entire rookie season after being diagnosed with leukemia – a battle he courageously won. His return in 2023 was promising but limited (16 catches for 158 yards), while last year showed modest improvement (24 receptions, 254 yards, 1 TD).
Sometimes a fresh start is exactly what a player needs. Metchie displayed game-breaking talent not long ago in college, and the Eagles have developed a knack for rejuvenating careers. The Alabama connection with Smith could also help fast-track his integration into the offense.
Dotson’s position isn’t necessarily in immediate jeopardy – he’s drawn praise throughout camp, particularly for his precise route-running. But this move signals the Eagles weren’t thrilled with their depth options (Johnny Wilson, Ainias Smith, and Terrace Marshall). If Dotson doesn’t take a significant step forward after a full year in the system, don’t be surprised if Metchie pushes for that WR3 role.
The competition at wide receiver just got more interesting in Philadelphia – exactly how Roseman likes it.