'Feels Like I Got Traded!': Dotson Approves Of Commanders' Facelift
To say that the Washington Commanders have fallen on rough times over the past few decades would be an understatement, and a 4-13 finish last season was just the latest in a long line of disappointments.
This offseason, though, hope seems to be renewed in the nation’s capital. Washington has a new head coach in Dan Quinn and a new general manager in Adam Peters as new owner Josh Harris continues to put his own stamp on the franchise. Additionally, the Commanders brought in several high-profile free agents and had a fantastic draft, highlighted by second overall pick and potential franchise quarterback Jayden Daniels.
Vincent Carchietta, USA Today
It’s a rare period of optimism in D.C., and not just for the fans, but for the players too. Speaking to Scott Abraham of ABC 7 in Washington, Commanders receiver Jahan Dotson shared his excitement for the upcoming season, particularly getting to work with Daniels.
“I’m really hyped, that’s the pick that I wanted, so I am happy we got him,” Dotson said. “I texted him right when he got drafted, and I said, ‘Congrats, man.’ He said, ‘Let’s get to work.’ It’s exciting……the fans should be really excited for this one.”
Dotson, the No. 16 pick in the 2022 NFL Draft, had a promising rookie season as he caught 35 passes for 523 yards and seven touchdowns despite playing just 12 games. Last season, though, the Penn State product took a step back as he caught 49 passes for 510 yards and four touchdowns in 17 games.
Dotson has only been in D.C. for two seasons, but it’s clear to him and many fans that the feeling in the building is drastically different than in years past.
“I’ve only been a short two years, but I do feel it is completely different,” Dotson said. “This is funny to say, but I was talking to some of the guys in the locker room, and I said it almost feels like I got traded. It feels like I came into a better opportunity. I feel like the confidence is at an all-time high, not only for the team but myself included.”