As Week 8 of the NFL season approaches, fantasy football managers are starting to feel the pressure of every lineup decision. One name that’s generating plenty of buzz—and uncertainty—is Washington Commanders’ wide receiver Jahan Dotson. Should he be in your starting lineup this week, or is it time to stash him on the bench? Let’s break it all down.
Jahan Dotson entered the 2023 season with high expectations, especially after flashing big-play potential during his rookie campaign. Dotson’s ability to stretch the field and his chemistry with quarterback Sam Howell had many predicting a breakout year. However, fantasy production has been inconsistent thus far, leading to frustration among managers who invested mid-round picks in the dynamic wideout.
Last week, Dotson generated 43 receiving yards on 5 receptions, showing signs of life in an otherwise sluggish fantasy campaign. While those numbers don’t scream WR1 potential, they do hint at a growing role in the Commanders’ pass-heavy offense. Notably, Dotson saw a season-high in targets, signaling that Howell may finally be looking his way with more regularity.
This week, Washington faces off against the Philadelphia Eagles. While the Eagles sport a fearsome pass rush, their secondary has been exposed throughout the season, ranking among the bottom-five teams in fantasy points allowed to opposing wide receivers. That opens the door for Dotson to exploit a defense that’s allowed multiple double-digit performances to WRs this season.
Another factor leaning in Dotson’s favor is game script. The Eagles are heavy favorites, and the Commanders are likely to be playing from behind. That could translate into a pass-heavy game plan with opportunity for volume—and Dotson, lining up opposite Terry McLaurin, stands to benefit from softer coverage.
Still, there are some lingering concerns. Dotson has yet to score a touchdown since Week 1, and Howell’s erratic play under pressure remains a wild card. Fantasy managers must weigh the risk of a low-output game against the upside of a high-volume, target-rich scenario.
Verdict: Start Jahan Dotson as a WR3 or flex option in deeper leagues. The matchup is favorable, and the potential for increased targets gives him a decent floor and enticing ceiling.
In conclusion, Jahan Dotson may not be the league winner fantasy managers had hoped for at draft time, but Week 8 presents a prime chance for him to deliver. With a vulnerable Eagles secondary and a predicted negative game script, Dotson carries sneaky upside as a starter in 12+ team leagues. For those navigating bye weeks or injuries, he could be the plug-and-play option that tips the scales in your favor.
