Despite speculation that he would forgo his senior season and declare for the 2017 NFL draft, Dawson later announced that he would return to Florida for his senior year.[1] During his senior season, he defended 13 passes, leading the Gators and tying for third in the Southeastern Conference (SEC). His accomplishments lead him to be selected for the Coaches All-SEC First-team.[2]
The New England Patriots selected Dawson in the second round with the 56th overall pick of the 2018 NFL draft.[5] On September 6, 2018, Dawson was placed on injured reserve with a hamstring injury.[6] On November 13, 2018, the Patriots activated Dawson off of injured reserve.[7] Despite being taken off injured reserve Dawson was inactive for the rest of the season. He did not appear in a single game. The Patriots would go on to reach and win Super Bowl LIII where they beat the Los Angeles Rams 13–3.[8]
Denver Broncos
On August 30, 2019, Dawson and a seventh-round pick were traded to the Denver Broncos for a sixth-round pick.[9]
In Week 14 of the 2020 season, Dawson suffered a torn ACL,[10] and was placed on injured reserve on December 16, 2020.[11]
On September 1, 2021, Dawson was placed on the reserve/physically unable to perform list to start the season.[12] He was activated on November 8, then waived and re-signed to the practice squad.[13][14] His contract expired when the teams season ended on January 8, 2022.
Carolina Panthers
On July 29, 2022, Dawson signed with the Carolina Panthers.[15] He was placed on injured reserve on August 23.[16] He was waived on August 25, 2022.[17]
Pittsburgh Steelers
On October 12, 2022, Dawson was signed to the Pittsburgh Steelers practice squad.[18] He signed a reserve/future contract on January 10, 2023.[19] However, he was waived/injured on August 14,[20] and placed on injured reserve. He was released on August 21.
BC Lions
On February 20, 2024, it was announced that Dawson had signed with the BC Lions.[21] He was released on May 25, 2024.[22]
