Every U.S. Open needs an everyman, and the 122nd edition has Joel Dahmen

BROOKLINE, Mass. – Every U.S. Open needs an everyman, and this edition has Joel Dahmen, one of the PGA Tour’s most popular and endearing characters.

Dahmen posted a perfectly respectable 67 at The Country Club for a share of the early lead, and unlike many in his position, who would dismiss an early lead, the 34-year-old was savoring the accomplishment.

“I had two putts from 30 feet. I don't think anyone in the afternoon is probably going to shoot [3 under],” Dahmen said. “That would be a hell of a score, but it would be a really cool footnote. Even if I ended up 40th, who cares?”

Dahmen, who is playing his ninth major this week, explained that his brand of self-deprecating humor is how his…