Rico Dowdle might end up being quite beneficial to the Cowboys.
Rico Dowdle was not included on the roster of the Dallas Cowboys free agents in 2024. With Tony Pollard’s contract ending as well, he wasn’t even the center of attention at running back. However, now that he’s back on a one-year contract, Dowdle has an opportunity to play a significant role, and possibly even more, depending on how the remainder of the offseason plays out.
Following two dismal seasons due to injury, Dowdle was able to return and was Pollard’s main backup in 2023. With his hard running style, he consistently gained dirty yards, averaging 4.1 yards per carry, a tenth better than Pollard’s average. In spite of playing few snaps, he demonstrated his versatility out of the backfield by hauling in 17 receptions.
With his new $1.26 million contract in Dallas, Dowdle is able to remain within a familiar system. Either through free agency or the more likely 2024 NFL Draft, he will be a reliable, cheap option for RB2 at the minimum for the Cowboys next season. As a rookie acquisition who made his way up through special teams and the undrafted levels, Dowdle can also be a valuable mentor. He joined the squad in 2020 and is still there now since he is a versatile and meticulous back.
The Cowboys’ lack of action in free agency at running back after Pollard left for Tennessee implies they are concentrating on upgrading through the draft. It makes sense to spend your cap funds elsewhere and acquire young, fresh legs on a cheap four-year rookie contract. Although it’s a financially sensible move, there’s a chance you won’t select the running back you want on draft weekend or that he won’t be prepared for a prominent role right away.
This is where things get better with Dowdle back. In the event that your draft plan fails, you could feel safe in knowing that he will have additional touches in 2024 as he is a better option than Malik Davis or Deuce Vaughn due to his experience and demonstrated abilities. Would Dowdle at 10% of the cost be any worse? Your $10 million, franchise-tagged running back didn’t exactly do much better with his opportunities the previous season.
Yes, we would have been thrilled to sign a big-name player or to hear about one of the best players from the 2024 draft class. That second possibility is still possible. Rico Dowdle is more than simply another body at running back, though, even if that happens. He can provide some much-needed insurance while filling in on offense and special teams. Even if the Cowboys’ next starting RB isn’t here yet, they do have a player who, if given the opportunity, may be interesting.