NFL Rumors: Jahan Dotson has clearly forgotten what Commanders QB room looks like
Washington Commanders wideout Jahan Dotson is feeling himself this offseason. He's so deep into his own zone that he may have forgotten who his quarterback is for 2023.
Dotson recently appeared on a podcast to discuss his journey to the NFL thus far, and he dropped a few bombs in the process. The second-year receiver was drafted 16th overall by the Commanders and showed a few flashes of brilliance early in the 2022 season, hauling in four touchdowns in the first four games.
In his Year 2, Dotson claims, he's going to be even better:
"Honestly, I feel like this is my breakout year. It's what I've been working hard for, and I've got to make them feel me."
Just wondering… how many young receivers enjoy a breakout season when their quarterback is Jacoby Brissett and/or Sam Howell? The Commanders aren't completely sure who their starter under center will be in 2023, and that alone should make wideouts a tad bit worried.
While Dotson did showcase his explosive speed and athleticism in his rookie year, he's going to get hurt by Washington's lack of quarterback stability. There's just no getting around that.
With ex-Chiefs coach Eric Bieniemy in charge of the offense, the Commanders may see more consistent offensive production, but Dotson's ambitious hopes of having a "breakout year" should be curbed by realistic expectations.
NFL Rumors: Steelers vet wants to see one crucial thing from Kenny Pickett in year two
Speaking of players' year twos, the Pittsburgh Steelers have a young, moldable quarterback in Kenny Pickett who many members of the franchise have since placed their faith in.
Veteran Cam Heyward recently discussed Pickett's progression and thinks 2023 could be the year Pickett starts to bring the Steelers' offense together.
"Every time we've needed a big drive at the end of a game, he was able to answer the call and answer the bell. I just look forward to him not waiting for the fourth quarter, let's get off the bus doing that. I think we'll have a lot more success that way."
In his rookie year, Pickett threw for 2,404 yards and seven touchdowns against nine interceptions with a 63 percent completion rate.
If Heyward is saying that all Pickett needs to do is improve in the first three quarters of a game, well, he's not wrong. But that's a lot easier said than done.
The Steelers were hailed as one of the brightest winners of this past year's draft, bringing in young blood capable of filling the team's roster holes. Pickett's success in 2023 will heavily hinge on his O-line's performance along with the performances of George Pickens and Calvin Austin, among other youngsters.
Everyone knows Year 2 for a rookie quarterback is a pivotal year, and Pickett may, in theory, be equipped for more success this upcoming season. Now it's all about how he executes on the field.
NFL Rumors: Bills training staff being honored at ESPYs for response to Damar Hamlin cardiac arrest
On Wednesday, it was announced that the Buffalo Bills training staff will be honored at the 2023 ESPYs for their life-saving actions in response to Damar Hamlin's scary collapse. The Bills training staff will receive the Pat Tillman Award for Service.
Hamlin suffered cardiac arrest in the Bills' regular season game against the Cincinnati Bengals in January, and thanks to the efforts of Buffalo's athletic trainers, Hamlin was able to be resuscitated and transported to a nearby hospital.
Hamlin's story is one that will be talked about for ages as the young safety defied the odds and made a full recovery within the span of a few months. Hamlin was cleared to play football again as early as April; it remains to be seen whether he will make the Bills' 53-man roster this season, yet his resounding impact has been undeniable.
He brought the entire NFL community to its knees and then back up again in his brave fight for his life, and the Bills training staff deserves their flowers for saving his life.
To first responders and EMT staff everywhere, thank you.
