Mello

Dotson

Perkins was signed following Andy Dalton’s elbow injury, so we take Perkins’ release as a positive regarding Dalton’s recovery. The Panthers also waived CB Mello Dotson, CB JaTravis Broughton, S Isaac Gifford, OG Luke Kandra, OG Steven Loyosa, WR TJ Luther, RB Kay’Ron Lynch-Adams, OLB J.J. Weaver and ILB Jacoby Windmon.

The UDFA rookie will compete for a backup role on defense while moonlighting as a special teams player. He demonstrated intriguing ballhawking skills in his four years at Kansas. The Panthers correspondingly waived CB M.J. Devonshire.

A four-year starter for the Jayhawks, Dotson (6’0/192) brings extensive experience and ball production from the outside cornerback spot in Brian Borland’s zone-heavy scheme. Dotson posted 12 career interceptions, returning four for touchdowns, while showing a natural feel for route anticipation and zone vision. His instincts pop on film, especially when jumping underneath throws with aggressive ballhawking angles. Dotson led the team in PBUs in both 2023 and 2024 while tying the school record for career pick-sixes with four. However, his Relative Athletic Score (5.83) reflects pedestrian speed (4.59s 40-yard dash) and limited burst, potentially capping his upside in man coverage. He can get grabby downfield and lacks recovery juice when beaten, but he brings a confident, reactionary mindset with proven production. Dotson fits best in a Cover-2 or quarters-based system where his awareness and click-and-close ability can be maximized. Solid special teams value adds to his appeal.

Dotson (6'1/170) had winnowed his field down to Kansas, Central Michigan, Georgia State and FAU, with the Jayhawks reigning supreme for his signature on Wednesday. He is the younger brother of FAU CB Meiko Dotson, who is currently in the transfer portal. Could we eventually see the Dotson Bros combine forces in Lawrence? Time will tell. For his part, Ra’Mello ranks as the No. 126 cornerback prospect in the 2020 class.