Breaking News: Two Eagles draft picks to play their final preseason game in Philly following Dotson’s Addition

As this story is being written, nearly 24 hours have passed since Jahan Dotson’s addition was announced. Philadelphia Eagles Vice President Howie Roseman may be one of the most aggressive general managers in the league, and now we’re seeing the consequences of his latest move.

Adding Dotson could make Ainias Smith’s chances of making the roster more uncertain or even unlikely. This is notable because Philadelphia used a fifth-round draft pick on Smith just this past April. However, anything can happen, and the situation is not set in stone.

While Dotson’s arrival has excited the fan base, it’s a reminder of the complexities of roster building. Success in this area relies on a balanced approach, combining trades, free-agent signings, and successful draft picks. Although it’s disappointing when drafted players don’t pan out, it’s a reality of the process.

Two recent Eagles draft picks may be playing in their final preseason game during the finale.

Two names come to mind: Zech McPhearson and Tarron Jackson. Both were recent draft picks for the Eagles. McPhearson, a fourth-round selection in 2021, and Jackson, a sixth-round pick taken 68 spots later, are both in contract seasons. Labeling either as a ‘bust’ might be premature, as both have shown they can play, but the Eagles have often had players at their positions who were considered better. Their stories are unique.

McPhearson entered training camp and the preseason expected to eventually secure a backup slot cornerback role. However, an injury derailed those plans.

Jackson’s playing time diminished from his rookie year to his second season, and last year he was relegated to the practice squad. Both players are now behind others on the depth chart whom the Eagles value more. The addition of Quinyon Mitchell and Cooper DeJean has further reduced McPhearson’s chances of making the roster, while Jackson faces the challenge of the numbers game, as he isn’t among the Eagles’ top-five edge rushers.

So, what does the future hold for them? They might be released during final roster cuts and potentially picked up by another team, or they could be added to the practice squad, though that would make them vulnerable to being signed by other teams.

It’s possible they might remain with the team as scout team members, but given that this is their fourth year, it’s hard to envision them receiving extensions at the end of the season.

If this turns out to be their final preseason game, they should hold their heads high. They’ve earned their place, but in the NFL, roster turnover can happen swiftly.