Dotson joined the Rams from the Pittsburgh Steelers prior to the 2023 season, with the team exchanging late-round picks to secure his services. He quickly emerged as a cornerstone of the offense, earning a three-year, $48 million contract in 2024 that included $32 million guaranteed. The deal has been a strong match for his level of play, reflecting the Rams’ confidence in his ability to anchor the line.
In 2025, Dotson posted impressive all-around numbers. Pro Football Focus rated him highly, delivering an 86.4 overall grade, ranking third among 81 qualified guards. His run-blocking grade stood at 89.3, also third at the position. Across 885 offensive snaps, he allowed 20 pressures and three sacks, while drawing only two penalties. These metrics underscore a guard who can consistently create movement in the running game and provide stability in pass protection.
Despite those strong statistics, Dotson has faced a crowded field for Pro Bowl consideration. The NFC houses several accomplished guards, making the voting landscape competitive. Names such as Chris Lindstrom and Tyler Smith have become well-established, contributing to a challenging environment for Dotson to break through.
The Rams under Sean McVay have long emphasized a system-driven approach, sometimes sparking debates about how much credit should go to the scheme versus the blockers executing it. Dotson’s production, however, has made it increasingly difficult to overlook his impact on the offense. His presence helps drive a productive run game and a balanced passing attack, reinforcing the team’s offensive identity.
Injuries provided another test of Dotson’s importance. Late in the previous season, he suffered an ankle sprain in the first quarter of a Week 16 game against Seattle, causing him to miss the final two regular-season games and the wild-card matchup against Carolina. The Rams entered that closing stretch ranked first in the NFL in EPA per play and rushing EPA, but their performance dipped when Dotson was unavailable. This drop underscored how integral he is to the running game’s power and reliability.
Heading into 2026, Dotson is in the final year of his contract. A first Pro Bowl selection would not only acknowledge his contributions but could also influence his next contract, whether with the Rams or elsewhere via free agency. With championship expectations surrounding the team, Dotson is likely to be featured in prominent games, giving voters more opportunities to recognize his work. Staying healthy will be crucial; the Rams will rely on his stability to maximize the offense’s potential.
Overall, Dotson has already delivered Pro Bowl-level production through multiple seasons, but the recognition has not yet matched the quality of his play. If he can carry his current trajectory into 2026 and remain healthy, a Pro Bowl appearance could finally reflect the respect he has earned on the field.
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