Commanders WR Jahan Dotson could miss 1-2 weeks with hamstring injury

The Washington Commanders are searching for answers on offense after the team’s third straight loss. Washington will have to try to find them without one of its key contributors. Commanders head coach Ron Rivera told reporters rookie wide receiver Jahan Dotson is dealing with a hamstring injury that “might keep him out a week or two,” according to The Athletic’s Ben Standig.

Dotson grabbed his leg after drawing a defensive holding penalty against Dallas Cowboys cornerback Anthony Brown in the fourth quarter of Washington’s 25-10 loss Sunday. 

The team held Dotson out for the remainder of the game. Dyami Brown replaced Dotson in the game. Brown was Washington’s third-round draft pick in 2021. But he hasn’t emerged as a reliable option in the passing game.

The loss of Dotson could hamper a Washington offense that struggled in the past three weeks. Dotson is tied with Buffalo Bills wide receiver Stefon Diggs for the most touchdown catches in the NFL.

The Commanders selected Dotson with the 16th overall pick in this year’s draft out of Penn State. Dotson is fourth on the team with 22 targets. His 12 receptions rank sixth. Still, he has emerged as a strong WR3 and Wentz’s favorite red zone target.

Commanders’ offensive coordinator Scott Turner will have to improvise. Expect running back JD McKissic, who has 23 targets on the season, to get an increased usage in the passing game. Also, tight end Logan Thomas could be used more as the third option behind leading receivers Terry McLaurin and Curtis Samuel.