Make or Break Year For Dotson

Two seasons ago, right tackle Demar Dotson was probably the best offensive lineman on the Bucs and still was heading into last season. However, he suffered a knee injury prior to the start of the season and was sideline for 8 weeks in which he was replaced by free agent pickup Godser Cherlius. Cherlius did a decent job but wasn't on the same level as Dotson is as far as pass protection goes. Not saying Dotson is a elite right tackle but is at least above average which is good enough for a right tackle.

Dotson is heading into a contract year and must get back to his 2014 form which was probably his best season as a pro. This will probably be his last big contract as he is already 30 years old and will be looking for top dollar. At 6'9 315lbs, Dotson has the size and length plus the athleticism to dominate at times on the field and is usually pretty consistent every week. Dotson and Cherlius will compete for the starting job during training camp and preseason which should be an interesting battle. I expect Dotson to win the job just due to the fact he is the better player and if healthy that should be an easy decision for the coaching staff.

Lets hope Dotson brings his best in 2016 and gives more time for Jameis to see the field and not have to worry about the edges at all. Dotson is a solid run blocker as well, and also does a good job on screen plays by getting out in the open field quickly to set up blocks for the RB. Having Dotson at his best in 2016 will be big for the Bucs offensive line, and more importantly it needs to happen for Dotson or he will be gone in 2017.