Commanders coach outlines focus around Jahan Dotson's growth in 2024

Jahan Dotson is under pressure to realize his potential in 2024. It's been a solid enough start for the wide receiver over the last two seasons, but the Washington Commanders expected more after taking the promising wide receiver at No. 16 overall in the 2022 NFL Draft.

This is a crucial Year 3 for Dotson. Flashing moments of quality won't cut it anymore. He must establish himself as an integral force and prominent feature in the Commanders' passing attack under new offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury. Anything less could see those in power add another prolific outside presence to go alongside Terry McLaurin in 2025.

Dotson should benefit greatly from improved schematic concepts. He'll also have a more productive quarterback under center after the Commanders selected Heisman Trophy winner Jayden Daniels at No. 2 overall in the 2024 NFL Draft.

Commanders coaches are working hard to eradicate Jahan Dotson's flaws

The Commanders are working hard to remove some problem areas from Dotson's game this offseason. Wide receivers coach Bobby Engram - one of the few staff members retained by Dan Quinn - outlined the primary focus centered on coping with press coverage better. Something the progressive thinker believes can make the former Penn State star more impactful downfield based on comments via John Keim of ESPN.

"Press releases have been a focus. He's figuring out what the next step is for him and how to get better. He knows if he's really good at the line it will allow him to be more dominant down the field. He has such great feet in terms of his quickness at the line [so] the emphasis has been on his hands, not allowing guys to be as physical as they want to be."

- Bobby Engram via ESPN

It's easy to forget how Dotson's deep threat was renowned at the collegiate level. He averaged 15.1 yards per catch over his four seasons with the Nittany Lions, including 18.1 during the 2019 campaign. This hasn't been put to good use in the pros as yet, but there's still time for that to change.

Daniels' deep ball accuracy is exceptional. Only Dyami Brown is considered a true vertical threat in Washington's wideout room currently. And it's not like he's put up gaudy numbers over his first three seasons in the league.

A huge opportunity awaits Dotson if he puts it all together. Becoming more accomplished versus press coverage, working on footwork in tight windows, and limiting concentration errors is a good place to start. If Daniels meets his end of the bargain, a genuine breakout campaign for the pass-catcher won't be far behind.

Physicality is key. Dotson isn't the biggest compared to more dominant NFL wideouts. Cornerbacks and getting longer and stronger. This is something he needs to counteract in pursuit of convincing the new regime he's worth keeping around long term.

This is a pivotal upcoming campaign for Dotson. His fifth-year option decision is looming. If the right improvements aren't made, it would be surprising to see Adam Peters trigger this contract clause.

It raises the stakes for Dotson, who isn't lacking in self-confidence. Learning how to counteract press coverage situations efficiently and create separation quickly will be a significant step in turning his production from mediocre to exceptional in 2024.