Eagles predicted to select Jahan Dotson replacement in 2026 mock draft

The way too early 2026 NFL mock drafts are still coming out despite next year's draft still about nine months away and the Philadelphia Eagles could be targeting an interesting position.

ESPN NFL Draft analyst Matt Miller predicted that the Eagles would select Washington Huskies wide receiver Denzel Boston with the 31st overall pick in the draft. Miller sees Boston as a solid third option in the passing game with A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith.

"The Eagles have thrived on finding top-20 players who slip through the cracks. Boston could fit that mold, as the 6-foot-4, 210-pounder had 63 catches, 834 yards and 9 touchdowns last season. His physical, above-the-rim style is a lot like Tetairoa McMillan's style. Philadelphia has two bona fide star receivers in A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith, but there isn't much behind them. With Brown entering his age-28 season, it's worth taking a young receiver like Boston for three-wide sets now and to eventually replace Brown later."

Would Denzel Boston the replacement for Jahan Dotson?

Philadelphia made its feelings known this offseason when the team decided not to pick up the fifth-year option on Dotson's rookie contract, marking the 2025 season his last under contract with the Eagles. Dotson was part of a trade right before the 2024 season after playing the first part of his career with the Washington Commanders.

The Eagles couldn't get Dotson to flourish in Kellen Moore's offense, and with the change of strategy to run the ball more with Saquon Barkley, Dotson got lost in the shuffle. He finished with a career-low 19 catches for 216 yards and zero touchdowns. Dotson at least performed well in the postseason, catching a touchdown early in the playoffs and nearly securing a second one against the Kansas City Chiefs in the Eagles' Super Bowl win.

With Dotson on the hot seat entering the 2025 season, Boston could come in and be that third option in the passing game. He had a breakout 2024 season with Washington, accumulating 834 yards and nine touchdowns, showcasing his big-play ability with an average of 13.2 yards per reception.

Boston has a size advantage over Dotson, as he can use his six-foot-four-inch frame to go up and make the catch. If he could be compared to a former Eagles wide receiver, Jason Avant would be a good comparison and would be used in the same way in the offense.

Dotson has to prove his worth in 2025, but even with a big regular season performance, it would be less than likely the Eagles bring him back. His price tag could skyrocket, and he might look for a place where he could be the number one or two receiver.

Regardless of how this season ends, the Eagles could very much be looking at adding another wide receiver in the draft or free agency.