5 Steelers that need to see more playing time going forward

Kevin Dotson

When the Steelers took Kevin Dotson in the fourth round of the draft, he was seen mostly as a developmental run-blocking guard. Forced into action early due to injury, Dotson has impressed. While his college tape showed a developed, mauling run blocker, Dotson has shown a lot of poise as a complete offensive lineman.

As of now, Dotson has yet to give up a sack. An impressive stat for a rookie, this doesn’t even take into account the fact that he has been tasked with blocking Jurrell Casey, Shelby Harris, Fletcher Cox, and Javon Hargrave. The fact that Dotson has held up so well as a pass blocker despite facing some elite talent bodes well for his future. While he won’t ascend as a starter this year unless of an injury, there is still a way he could get more playing time.

While he has only played one snap here, he came into a lineup as an eligible tight end to block. Typically, the Steelers utilize their swing tackle in this role, but considering that honor was given to Jerald Hawkins out of necessity, there is no reason Dotson shouldn’t get more work in heavy packages. While a little bit bigger, Dotson has shown some decent athleticism out in space, meaning he would probably excel in this role. As well, it would earn him more snaps when the starters are healthy for him to further his depth during his rookie year.