Many Commanders know of Dante Fowler and praise him for his contributions as a pass rusher. He is often regarded as one of Dan Quinn's best free agent signings as he sits third in the league in sacks as of November 13th, 2022. Fowler has had many solid years throughout his career but it hasn't always been smooth sailing. In this article I will explore the interesting career of Dante Fowler and his ascent from a disappointment to one of the league's best pass rushers.

Career Beginnings and Collegiate Career

Dante Fowler was born and raised in St. Petersburg, Florida. He excelled in shot put throwing over 14 meters at a district meet. Football, however, was his main sport as he was named to multiple high school all-american teams. A highly-touted defensive end recruit, he commited to play for the Florida Gators. He gained notoriety as a freshman posting impressive statistics of 8 tackles for a loss and 2.5 sacks. He continued his dominance through his junior season when he recorded a whoppings 15 tackles for a loss and 8.5 sacks. Following the departure of his head coach, Fowler declared for the draft.

Early Career

Following a solid combine, Fowler was taken at #3 overall by the Jaguars. This move was not a surprise as Fowler, himself stated that he would be shocked if he was not the 3rd pick. The excitement ended there as Fowler tore his ACL just one day into minicamp. He would go on to make his debut in 2016 recording 3 tackles including 1 for a loss in a close loss. The next week he totaled 2 sacks in a blowout loss to San Fran. Although this was a good sign, new acquisitions Yannick Ngakoue and Malik Jackson made playing time harder to come by. Fowler only started one game in his first season and played around 53% of the team's defensive snaps. He finished the season with 32 tackles, 4 sacks and 5 deflections although he was outshined by 2016 3rd rounder Ngakoue (who recorded 8 sacks). The Jaguars were atrocious and head coach Gus Bradley was fired before the end of the season. Fowler's PFF grade for the season was a lackluster 59.5 as he struggled with missed tackles.

Sacksonville and Decline

After an arrest for battery during the offseason, the pressure was on for Dante Fowler to succeed. The Jaguars were expected to be rebuilding and Dante Fowler's breakout seemed to be necessary. What happened was what no one could have expected. Fowler had an up-and-down season as although he had multiple excellent games, he failed to crack the starting lineup and was routinely outshone by longtime vet Calais Campbell and young Yannick Ngakoue. He finished the season with 8 sacks, 2 forced fumbles, 2 recoveries in 16 games (0 starts). The Jaguars surprised everyone and made it all the way to AFC championship game before some questionable officiating ended one of the decade's most fun playoff runs. Fowler had 2 sacks in the playoff loss. Although the counting stats may appear solid, it is worth noting that Fowler struggled mightily in run defense and continued to fall short of expectations. He only had 21 combined tackles struggling in run defense and finished tied for third on the team in sacks. This explains why the Jaguars did not hesitate in declining his fifth year option. In 2018, things only worsened for Fowler. He was suspended 1 game for a personal conduct policy violation and a scuffle that would lead to Vice President Tom Coughlin's firing. Following a messy offseason, his playing time would decrease for the third straight season. The Jaguars had seemingly fallen off a cliff and Fowler had just 9 tackles in 7 games. He was traded to the Rams for a compensatory third round selection (All Pro Linebacker Quincy Williams) at the deadline. Fowler's first season with LA was a mixed bag as the Rams went to the super bowl with Fowler starting most of their games. His production, though remained middling and unspectacular. After a solid playoff run, he signed a prove-it deal.

Breakout and Payday

Dante Fowler was spectacular in 2018. The Rams utilized him extremely well and he had 11.5 sacks. He certainly benefited from playing with Hall of Fame defensive tackle Aaron Donald but it appeared Fowler was turning a corner in his career. In 14 starts he set career highs in nearly every stat category. The Rams would go on to finish 9.7 and miss the playoffs. Fowler entered the offseason as one of the top edge rusher free agents. He signed a massive 48 million $ deal with Atlanta in a deal that was panned by critics. Many wondered worried about Fowler's inconsistency and one-dimensionality but remained hopeful that a reunion with his Florida coach Dan Quinn would lead to success. Dan Quinn would get fired only 5 games into the new season and the contract ended up being nightmarish for the Falcons as in 13 starts, Fowler recorded only 3 sacks and 12 solo tackles. The next year things only worsened for Fowler who lost his starting job to a 5th round rookie and dealt with a serious knee injury. He was released following two disappointing seasons with a hapless Falcons team.

(Second) Reunion with Quinn and Revitalization

Fowler's time in Atlanta left a sour taste in the mouths of many and his career appeared to be close to over. Fowler, however, had other ideas. Still in his 20s, Fowler settled into a rotational role with Dallas. Although he started very few games and appeared mainly as a pass rusher he helped some of the league's best units. He was more efficient and consistent with his opportunities and made plays with the Cowboys. Although not a star, Fowler became a respected member of the Cowboys defense under Dan Quinn. Fowler became a free agent once again in 2024 after his two one year contracts expired.

Fowler with Washington

Fowler has experienced another breakout with Washington. Dan Quinn signed him on a cheap one year deal and he has more than lived up to his billing. After reestablishing himself as a starter, Fowler has become one of the league's most elite pass rushers. Even at the age of 30 he is extremely quick and explosive and recorded a 67 yard pick 6 against Carolina. As of November 13th, he has 8.5 sacks and 10 tackles for a loss through 10 games and looks to be a key cog on the Commanders defense. One can only hope Dan Quinn resigns him as his presence alone has been imposing to other offenses. Next time you think about Dante Fowler though remember his career wasn't a cakewalk to this point and had many bumps along the road.