Kevin Dotson
Summary
Kevin Dotson was selected in Round 4 (#135 Overall) of the 2020 Draft out of University of Louisiana. Dotson entered the NFL as a four-year starter at guard for the Ragin’ Cajuns, earning first-team All-Sun Belt and All-America honors. He brings a robust physical profile: strong lower-body power, ability to finish blocks, and functional movement as a pulling guard. While not considered an elite athlete in space, his technique, hand usage, and power-strike mentality stood out. Over his professional career he has developed into one of the better run-blocking guards in the league, demonstrating the kind of anchor and finishing ability teams value.
Strengths
Powerful hands and finishing ability at the point of attack: Dotson is a heavy-handed striker who wants to punch you in the mouth and looks for the finish every play. Bleacher Report
Strong run-blocking production and efficiency: Rated highly by analytics for his ability to generate movement in the run game and open lanes. PFF
Versatility and experience as a starter: Four-year starter in college, expected to step into starting guard role early in his NFL career. Bleacher Report
Effective puller and mover in interior schemes: He shows ability to climb to second level on run blocks, work in space for digging blocks, and execute movement-based concepts.
Improving pass-pro fundamentals: While run blocking is his forte, he has shown steady improvement in pass protection metrics, making him a more complete interior lineman. PFF
Weaknesses
Athletic limitations in space and lateral movement: While strong in base and power, evaluators noted that Dotson isn’t among the top athletes in guard class when asked to mirror elite pass-rushers in open space. Bleacher Report
Consistency of lower-body bend and pad level under scrutiny: Occasionally rises too upright after initial punch, which can allow defenders to gain leverage.
Competition level concern from college: Playing at Louisiana, while productive, some evaluators noted his level of competition wasn’t the same as top-tier Power Five programs, which raised questions about translation. Bleacher Report
Pass protection still a developmental phase: Though improving, his pass-pro grades are lower than his run-block marks, indicating further refinement is needed to elite level. PFF
Ceiling somewhat tied to scheme fit: His best work comes where he can work inside, anchor and finish. Schemes demanding constant lateral chase, pull heavy wide-zone or single-gap may expose his athletic ceiling.
Fit & Outlook
Kevin Dotson fits optimally in an offense that emphasizes interior strength, power-run concepts, and zone or mixed run schemes where the guard must finish blocks, open holes and contribute as a mover/puller. He is especially suited to systems that ask guards to climb, engage second level, and build lanes, rather than purely serve as space-chasing blockers or mirror guards for elite edge rushers. A team that prioritizes run-blocking continuity and values a strong interior anchor will maximize his skill-set. Looking ahead, Dotson’s outlook is very solid. His floor is that of a dependable starting guard who can be counted on to open holes in the run game, protect the interior lane and provide stability along the line. His upside is meaningful: if he continues refining his pass-pro technique, improves his lateral mobility, and remains healthy, he could ascend into the upper echelon of interior linemen—perhaps elite run-blocking guard status. The key variables will be scheme alignment (ensuring he’s not placed into mismatched roles), durability, and continual refinement of his pass-pro and athleticism. Overall, Dotson offers a strong combination of traits, production and projection for long-term NFL success.