Kevin Dotson's 2024 free agency contract projection

There probably isn’t a player that increased his value more since the beginning of this season than Kevin Dotson. Dotson didn’t quite hit his stride in his first three seasons with the Steelers; after playing his college career at right guard, they moved him to the left side in 2021 and he later expressed he was uncomfortable with the switch all season, even feeling cramps and aches in his body from trying to mirror his former movements at his new position. In 2022 he stayed at left guard, and although he was a solid pass blocker, he couldn’t carry his pass blocking success into the run game.

After the Rams played their final preseason game against the Broncos, they agreed to two Day 3 pick swaps with the Steelers in exchange for Dotson, giving the Steelers their 2024 4th for the Steelers’ 5th, and their 2025 5th for the Steelers’ 6th. They played Dotson on his natural side, right guard, and Dotson dominated as a run blocker and continued showcasing strong pass blocking prowess. Considering how late he joined his new teammates, it’s remarkable how well he performed.

Although his 2023 pass blocking efficiency grade was the lowest of his career, the 97.4% figure is more than serviceable for a player that shined in the run game, and is backed by three seasons (though only one as a starter) of PBE’s above 98%.

He won’t reset the market in 2024, but Dotson went from a replacement-level valuation in the preseason to one of the top free agent guards on the market.

• Franchise Tag Likelihood: Medium
• 4 Year, $72M, $18M APY, 36M GTD
• Year One Cap Hit: $6M

Be sure to check back in and around the site for more projections, as we will add more in the coming days and weeks.