Rico Dowdle, the backup running back for the Dallas Cowboys, has been cleared to play after recovering from an ankle injury.
Rico Dowdle, a running back, has received an update on his injury to the Dallas Cowboys. According to Ian Rapoport of NFL Network, he had a limited practice week because of an ankle injury, but he is now available to play against.
With 235 yards and one touchdown on 55 carries, Dowdle is enjoying his best NFL season as Tony Pollard’s backup for the majority of the campaign. Following two seasons of patiently waiting behind Pollard and Ezekiel Elliot, he was able to carve out a role for himself in training camp.
The Cowboys and quarterback Dak Prescott have been extremely successful in the passing game this season, so the running backs have essentially been used as supporting actors in the offense. They don’t have a “star” running back according to the stat sheet, which might be because their offense is designed for air yards. For his role against the Washington Commanders, Dowdle can anticipate something akin to his typical one.
Dowdle has a limited role as a pass-catcher and averages about six carries per game. In his best performance of the season, he ran for 79 yards and one touchdown. Because the starting pitcher’s performance is a determining factor in backup roles, there is always some degree of inconsistency, which affects Dowdle’s numbers.
After defeating the Carolina Panthers and New York Giants back-to-back, Dallas will try to extend its winning streak. The Cowboys have an advantage in their Commanders matchup because they have a history of success against teams that are below.500. Thanksgiving Day is their home game in the NFL’s yearly holiday schedule against Washington.