Obviously, I don’t post, but have read this site for years. Having never played football, but have been a Ram for decades I have some knowledge of the game. Certainly, not near as much as most that post here. That being said, here's my thoughts on resigning of Dotson and his FA market.
First, I think Sneed is playing this the right way with both Dotson and Shelton. Before 2023 Dotson was at best an average guard. And then, for whatever reason, he becomes a top player at his position. If another team had a need for a top guard, would they commit $15-$18-$20MM a year for five years after only one year of outstanding play with another team? I would not. Why? Maybe, the scheme isn’t compatible (Pittsburg), won’t respond to the line coach, the overall coaching and team environment isn’t as good, or the chance to win consistently isn’t there. That’s a lot of money to commit to someone who out of nowhere plays at an All-Pro level.
For the reasons above, I would be surprised if he receives any long term offers for over $15MM annually. Because of his sudden great play in 2023 Sneed might look at a contract such as:
$75MM / 5 year with $30MM guaranteed at signing in the first two years. This way if Dotson reverts back to his previous play the contract is done in two years with a small dead cap number. A possible structure might be a $10MM signing bonus prorated at $2MM a year for the five years. Then a salary of $8MM in 2024 and $12MM for 2025.
For example the cap hits might be:
2024 - $10MM
2025 - $14MM
2026-28 - $17MM a year
This way Dotson gets a guaranteed $30MM in the first two years and if he continues to play at an All-Pro level more money can be guaranteed after the 2025 season. It’s just one example that might work for both parties. Dotson seemed to like playing for the Rams and his teammates appeared to enjoy and respect him as well. But, I’m not naive to think Dotson may just want the big bag and doesn’t care that much about winning or playing for an outstanding coaching staff and environment.
As for Shelton. I’d go $6-7MM per year at most for two years. I can’t see another team paying him more than that. Consider he plays between Avila and Dotson. Unless another team has a guard tandem of that quality then why would they sign Shelton? I think his market is pretty much the Rams. And, Avila was an outstanding center in his final year in college. So, no Shelton, then move Avila to center and draft a guard (3rd round?). There’s plenty of good ones available. Or, there could be a guard prospect already on the team that’s ready to step up.
Sorry for the long post. The bright side is that I only post every few years! Lol.
Sounds like you are hell bent on Dotson getting signed no matter the cost. I'll say again that I want Dotson back but not at some astronomical price.
