How many times this offseason has Washington Commanders wide receiver Jahan Dotson been predicted as a breakout NFL player for 2023?
We’ve seen lists naming Dotson as the Commanders’ breakout performer for 2023. Dotson himself said he was due for a breakout second season. The No. 16 overall pick in the 2022 NFL draft led the Commanders with seven touchdowns as a rookie despite missing five games.
In the Commanders’ second preseason game, in which starters played the first half, Dotson connected with quarterback Sam Howell for five receptions and 76 yards. Is that a precursor for what Howell and Dotson could accomplish together in 2023?
Remember, Dotson has one of the NFL’s best wide receivers lining up on the opposite side in Terry McLaurin. It would be hard for teams to double-team both wideouts.
Another reason for optimism is offensive coordinator Eric Bieniemy. Bieniemy’s offense will throw the ball more than former offensive coordinator Scott Turner.
That’s why Peter Schrager of “Good Morning Football” on the NFL Network named Dotson as the No. 10 breakout player for 2023.
“He didn’t get the same buzz as a Garrett Wilson or a Chris Olave, but I think Jahan Dotson joins those guys this year and has a breakout season,” Schrager said.
Schrager proceeded to explain how Dotson led the Commanders in receiving touchdowns despite missing time.
“I believe he’s going to be in the same conversation as some of those other guys in that rookie class last year, and that includes Garrett Wilson, Chris Olave and Jameson Williams.”
Since 2018, @Pschrags has revealed his Top 10 Breakout Players of the Year in the last week of August.
At #10, @Commanders WR Jahan Dotson.
"Dotson missed 5 games last year & still led all rookies in TDs. He's healthy, in a new offense, and can fly." pic.twitter.com/eGUImyZT8X
— Good Morning Football (@gmfb) August 28, 2023
Olave and Wilson received most of the attention last year. However, other receivers from that class include Drake London and Dotson. If Dotson can stay healthy, there are plenty of reasons to be bullish on him in 2023. He’s explosive, runs “filthy” routes and has no problem creating separation.
Dotson’s stock is up.