From Eagles to Commanders: The Evolution of NFL’s Most Intriguing Player Crossovers
Tonight’s NFC East showdown between the Philadelphia Eagles and Washington Commanders isn’t just another divisional game—it’s a showcase of football’s most fascinating player crossovers, highlighted by Zach Ertz and Jahan Dotson.
The stakes couldn’t be higher. A win for the Eagles would boost their chances of clinching the NFC East to 77%, while the Commanders could see their title odds soar to 61% with a victory, according to ESPN Analytics.
At the heart of this rivalry are two players who know both sidelines intimately. Zach Ertz, now wearing the Commanders’ burgundy and gold, spent nine decorated seasons with the Eagles, including catching the game-winning touchdown in Super Bowl LII. Meanwhile, Jahan Dotson made the reverse journey, moving from Washington to Philadelphia in a rare intradivisional trade this year.
“I’m just trying to treat it like a normal week,” Dotson said, downplaying the emotional significance of facing his former team. “The main thing is getting the W.”
Ertz echoes similar sentiments: “Obviously everyone knows how I feel about that place; it’s special in our hearts. But I’m not making this bigger than it needs to be.”
Legacy of Crossover Stars
These two aren’t the first to cross this historic rivalry line. Here are some notable players who’ve worn both uniforms:
Carson Wentz (2016-2020 Eagles, 2022 Commanders)
- I set an NFL rookie completion record with 379.
- Led Eagles to an 11-2 start in 2017
- As an Eagle, I posted a 4-1 record against Washington.
DeSean Jackson (2008-2013, 2019-2020 Eagles; 2014-2016 Commanders)
- Authored the “Miracle at the Meadowlands II”
- In his first game back, he scored an 81-yard touchdown against the Eagles.
- I recently retired as an Eagle, declaring that “Philly will always be home.”
Ryan Kerrigan (2011-2020 Commanders, 2021 Eagles)
- Commanders’ all-time sack leader
- Recorded 13.5 sacks against Philadelphia
- He currently works as the assistant defensive line coach for Commanders.
Brian Mitchell (1990-1999 Commanders, 2000-2002 Eagles)
- He ranks second all-time in NFL all-purpose yards (23,330).
- Dominated special teams for both franchises
- Holds impressive records against both teams
The Modern Impact
Tonight’s game adds another chapter to this storied rivalry. Both teams have key players who understand the deep-seated rivalry from both perspectives. Their insights and experiences add an extra layer of intrigue to an already crucial divisional matchup.
Eagles’ head coach Nick Sirianni puts it best: “These rivalry games write their own stories. Players from both sides add something special.”
Both teams know that division supremacy, beyond personal storylines, is at stake as the game begins at 8:15 PM ET. For Ertz and Dotson, it’s more than just another game—it’s a chance to prove their worth against former teammates while helping their current team’s playoff push.
Whether you’re watching for the playoff implications or the personal narratives, one thing’s certain: this matchup between the Eagles and Commanders promises to be another memorable chapter in one of football’s most compelling rivalries.