NFL
By: Ryan Cooley
Three years ago, I wrote an article about a potential new #1 WR in Washington. In his first two games, fans knew McLaurin was going to be special. I discussed how Washington desperately needed a true #1 receiver after the departure of Garcon and Jackson. Fast forward three years, McLaurin is now a household name and received a well-deserved 3-year/$71 million extension.
Unfortunately, McLaurin had been the only reliable weapon on the offense his first three seasons. This does not seem to be the case in 2022. With the 16th overall pick in the 2022 draft, the Commanders selected Jahan Dotson. Most were apathetic towards the Penn State wide receiver. The fan base had their eyes on other prospects such as Chris Olave and Drake London and felt Washington settled for Dotson.
Despite not receiving the hype of other prospects, Dotson’s impact was immediately seen by the coaching staff and media. Senior Writer for the Commanders, Zach Selby on Jahan Dotson during OTAs: “He’s running crisp routes and getting open while working against the starting defense in team drills.”
His impact continued into training camp where whispers began about him potentially being better than McLaurin. Of course, these reports mean nothing if Dotson’s dominance didn’t translate on Sundays.
In the first two weeks of the season, Dotson has hulled in 7 of his 9 targets for 99 yards (14.1 yards/reception). While that would be encouraging enough, 3 of his 7 receptions have been for touchdowns; one being the game-winner against Jacksonville.
Jahan Dotson’s doing stuff like this in his second career game!???!?!?! pic.twitter.com/jpumww1FKS
— Pete Hailey (@PeteHaileyNBCS) September 19, 2022
His immediate impact has given very similar vibes to that of McLaurin’s first two games. McLaurin began his career with 10 receptions for 185 yards and two scores in two games. Both McLaurin and Dotson quickly flashed their potential right out of the gate. While it is only two games, it is hard to imagine Dotson does not continue to show his dominance throughout the season. As of now, Dotson holds the 2nd highest odds to win offensive rookie of the year (+750).
If Dotson continues down this path, Washington will have two threats at the receiver position through the 2025 season. The league is placing more and more value upon having multiple weapons on offense.
It is extremely difficult to be a threat offensively without having multiple #1 options in the passing game. The Rams added Allen Robinson to join Cooper Kupp. The Bucs have Evans and Godwin, while also adding Julio Jones in the offseason. The 49ers have Deebo and Kittle. You can never have too many receivers in today’s game.
Carson Wentz now has three legitimate pieces to work with at the receiver position with McLaurin, Dotson, and Samuel. For the first time, Scott Turner can utilize the entire playbook without it being limited by lack of talent.
While the defense has had its struggles, the offense has kept the Commanders in both games this season and a big reason for that is Jahan Dotson. With 15 games left, the offense will need to keep up its play if they want to make a push into the playoffs.
