The Panthers signed Rico Dowdle to a one-year, $6.25 million contract.

Fantasy Impact

Dowdle will compliment Chuba Hubbard in the Panthers backfield with the uncertainty of Jonathon Brooks heading into next season.

Cowboys COO Stephen Jones stated Monday that the team is eager to lock in Rico Dowdle before he hits free agency at the start of the new league year. Dowdle, who broke out in 2024, is currently exclusive to Dallas’ negotiating window, but that changes soon. After years buried on the depth chart or practice squad, the 26-year-old (27 by June) delivered a strong case for a solid payday. Jones didn’t specify terms, but Dowdle’s late-career surge could draw interest from other teams, who may see him as either a lead back or a high-end No. 2. His camp isn’t expected to offer Dallas a bargain, given this might be his best shot at a big contract.

Fantasy Impact

Dowdle’s 2024 emergence turned heads, making him a waiver wire gem for fantasy managers down the stretch. His ability to handle a heavier workload flashed starter potential, though some teams might cap him as a complementary piece. If Dallas re-signs him, he could settle into a shared backfield role, keeping him on the RB2 radar with flex appeal—especially in deeper leagues. A move elsewhere might boost his ceiling if he lands a lead gig, but competition could temper that. Fantasy owners should track his landing spot; a return to Dallas keeps him relevant, while a fresh start could shift his value higher.

Rico Dowdle ran for 72 yards and a touchdown on 22 carries in the Cowboys 23-19 loss against the Commanders

Fantasy Impact

Dowdle scored the lone touchdown on the day for Dallas. He took over the workhorse role in the Cowboys backfield after it was a committee to open the season. Dallas could be looking to address the backfield this offseason.

Rico Dowdle ran for 104 yards on 23 carries in the Cowboys 41-7 loss against the Eagles. He also caught his lone target for four yards receiving.

Fantasy Impact

Dowdle also lost a fumble on the day. It was an impressive day on the ground for him in a tough matchup, though he was unable to find the end zone. It is unclear if he will play next week against the Commanders.

Rico Dowdle carried the ball 13 times for 23 yards and caught all three of his targets for 28 yards in a 26-24 win over the Buccaneers in Week 16.

Fantasy Impact

Dowdle turned in a disappointing outing against the Buccaneers, although he salvaged his evening with a decent showing in the passing game. To make matters worse, Ezekiel Elliott vultured a one-yard touchdown in the second quarter. Dowdle will look to bounce back against the Eagles on the road in Week 17.