Eagles Rookie Receiver on Trade Watch After Disappointing Offseason

Philadelphia, PA – June 28, 2025

Training camp is just weeks away, and while the Philadelphia Eagles boast one of the deepest rosters in the NFL, there’s one name quietly falling off the radar — and fans don’t seem too bothered. With competition heating up across all position groups, the wide receiver room is emerging as a battleground, especially beyond the top-tier stars.

As A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith continue to lock down WR1 and WR2 roles, all eyes have turned to the next tier. Jahan Dotson has shown promise heading into Year 2, and both Terrace Marshall and Danny Gray have drawn strong praise from minicamp observers. That leaves limited room — and even less patience — for those who haven’t delivered.

One such player is fifth-round pick Ainias Smith, whose rookie year was derailed by injury and inconsistency. He finished the 2024 season with just seven receptions for 41 yards and a single touchdown, having appeared in only 20% of the team’s offensive snaps. Coaches hoped for a breakout this spring — instead, they got silence.

According to Martin Frank of the Delaware News Journal, Marshall “looked impressive” in minicamp, and Gray “also looked sharp.” Smith, by contrast, hasn’t stood out — and notably, hasn’t been utilized as a punt returner, despite excelling in that role at Texas A&M with 836 yards and two touchdowns. That absence is telling. With five names likely ahead of him on the depth chart, his path to the 53-man roster is rapidly closing.

Fan reaction has been blunt. Many online have voiced support for trading Smith while he still holds any value. “If Philly gets a Day 3 pick for him, that’s a win,” one post read on X. It’s a far cry from the optimism that followed his selection just a year ago.

Unless he delivers something spectacular in late July, Ainias Smith may be suiting up for another team — or watching from home.

Stay tuned to ESPN for more updates on the Eagles’ final roster decisions.