Ra’Mello Dotson is a cornerback prospect from the University of Kansas who has steadily improved his draft stock over his collegiate career. Standing at 6’1″ and weighing 190 pounds, Dotson possesses the ideal size that NFL teams covet at the cornerback position.
Dotson was a two-star recruit out of Mainland High School in Daytona Beach, Florida. He committed to Kansas over offers from smaller programs like Central Michigan, FAU, and Georgia State. Dotson’s journey from an unheralded recruit to a potential NFL draft pick is a testament to his development and work ethic.
2025 NFL Draft Scouting Report: Mello Dotson, Kansas
College Career
Dotson’s college career at Kansas spans five years, during which he transformed from a sparingly used freshman to a productive four-year starter. His statistical progression is impressive:
- 2020: Limited playing time
- 2021: 24 tackles, 1 interception in 8 starts
- 2022: 54 tackles, 2 interceptions, 6 pass breakups
- 2023: 48 tackles, 4 interceptions (2 touchdowns), 11 pass breakups
- 2024: 49 tackles, 5 interceptions (2 touchdowns), 7 pass breakups
Dotson’s performance in his final two seasons earned him recognition as a Walter Camp Second Team All-American and an AP Third-Team All-American in 2024, along with First Team All-Big 12 honors.
Strengths
Ball Skills: Dotson’s most notable attribute is his ability to make plays on the ball. With nine interceptions over his last two seasons, including four returned for touchdowns, he has demonstrated excellent ball-tracking skills and the ability to create turnovers.
Length and Size: At 6’1″ with long arms, Dotson has the ideal frame for an NFL cornerback. This length allows him to disrupt passes and challenge receivers at the catch point.
Versatility: Dotson has experience playing in both man and zone coverage schemes. He’s comfortable in press-man, bail technique, and Cover 3, showcasing his adaptability to different defensive systems.
Football IQ: With extensive starting experience, Dotson has developed a good understanding of route concepts and shows solid awareness in zone coverage.
Run Support: Dotson is willing and able to support the run game, quickly triggering downhill and showing a physical presence on the edge.
Weaknesses
Athletic Limitations: While Dotson is a smooth mover, he lacks elite athleticism. This can lead to initial separation against quicker receivers, particularly on sharp breaks or double moves.
Tackling Consistency: Despite his willingness in run support, Dotson’s tackling technique needs refinement. He has a tendency to dive at legs or attempt ankle tackles, which can lead to missed opportunities, especially against larger ball carriers.
Hip Fluidity: Some tightness in Dotson’s hips can affect his transitions, potentially causing issues when required to change direction quickly.
Eye Discipline: Dotson occasionally gets caught peeking into the backfield, which can lead to blown coverages if he loses track of his assignment.
NFL Projection
Mello Dotson projects as a mid-round selection in the 2025 NFL Draft, likely in the fourth round. His combination of size, ball skills, and experience make him an intriguing prospect for teams looking to add depth and playmaking ability to their secondary.
Dotson’s skill set is best suited for a zone-heavy scheme where he can use his instincts and ball skills to make plays. However, with proper coaching and development, he has the physical tools to contribute in man coverage as well.
Initially, Dotson may find a role as a rotational cornerback and special teams contributor. His ability to create turnovers and compete in the run game gives him the potential to develop into a starting-caliber player with time and refinement of his technique.
Conclusion
Mello Dotson’s journey from a two-star recruit to a potential NFL draft pick is a compelling narrative. His production at Kansas, particularly in creating turnovers, will certainly intrigue NFL teams. While he may not be an elite athlete, Dotson’s size, ball skills, and football IQ make him a solid developmental prospect with the potential to outperform his draft position.
As he transitions to the NFL, Dotson will need to improve his tackling technique, enhance his hip fluidity, and maintain better eye discipline. If he can address these areas, Dotson has the tools to become a valuable contributor in an NFL secondary, with the upside to develop into a starter.
NFL teams looking for a cornerback with good size, instincts, and playmaking ability in the middle rounds of the 2025 NFL Draft should have Mello Dotson high on their list of prospects to consider.
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