Dotson entered the league with promise, dealing with injuries as a rookie with the Washington Commanders but finishing with seven touchdowns and 35 receptions for 523 yards over 12 contests. The TDs and yards still stand as career highs. He spent just one more year in Washington and never found a groove as the team went through quarterbacks. Dotson had 518 yards and four scores on 49 catches in 2023, then was traded to the Philadelphia Eagles in the 2024 preseason where he fell down the Commanders’ WR pecking order.
Dotson started buried behind the superstar duo of AJ Brown and DeVonta Smith in Philly and never dug out. Over the past two seasons, Brown and Smith have combined for 420 targets, 290 catches, 3,923 yards and 26 TDs. Dotson finished third among Eagles wide receivers in targets both years, totaling 37 receptions for 478 yards and a score in 69 looks.
The Falcons give Dotson renewed hope that he can play a significant role.
Atlanta’s offense will still run heavily through running back Bijan Robinson, tight end Kyle Pitts and wide receiver Drake London, but the depth chart at wide receiver behind London is wide open.
Dotson’s most notable competition for targets behind the big three club is free agent Olamide Zaccheaus and third-round draft pick Zachariah Branch, both of whom fit naturally in the slot, meaning Dotson could cement himself on the edge against London with a good training camp.
“They brought me here to show people what I can do,” Dotson said of the Falcons brass. “I feel like I’ve held it all together for the last few years. I’m ready to show the world what I can do. Coach (Kevin) Stefanski is giving me the opportunity and I can’t wait to take it.”
How confident is Dotson that he can reach new heights with Atlanta?
He’s setting his sights on the top of the NFL’s WR totem pole.
“I want to be one of the best,” Dotson said. “I’m not afraid (to say it). I was talking to Jessie Bates, and he was talking about wanting to be the greatest to ever play, and I’m comfortable with that kind of thing. I want to be one of the best in the league. I want to show my talent.”