Rico Dowdle is exploring his free agency options following a notable 2024 season and has not dismissed the possibility of rejoining the Dallas Cowboys. After spending the last season with the Carolina Panthers, Dowdle revealed on Wednesday that returning to Dallas remains a viable option for him, highlighting his gratitude toward the team that initially gave him his NFL opportunity.
“I would never take that option off the table,” Dowdle said. “I would definitely consider going back to Dallas. I’m really grateful to them and, like I said, they blessed me and gave me the opportunity, the starting point, to be where I am today.”
The Cowboys allowed Dowdle to leave in March after his impressive performances in 2024, during which he demonstrated his capability as a reliable running back. His decision to test free agency comes as teams evaluate roster needs heading into the new NFL season.
Season Highlights and Challenges with the Panthers
During his time with Carolina, Dowdle took over for injured running back Chuba Hubbard and delivered impactful performances. Despite an encouraging start, his touches diminished toward the end of the season, notably receiving only 15 rushes in the Panthers’ last two games, which he found frustrating. Dowdle has expressed his aim to secure a more significant role in whichever team he joins next.
In the 2024 campaign, Dowdle appeared in every game for Carolina, rushing 236 times for 1,076 yards and scoring six touchdowns. Additionally, he made 39 receptions totaling 297 yards and added another touchdown through catches. One of his standout outings happened in Week 6 against Dallas, where he amassed 239 total yards, including 183 rushing yards, to contribute heavily to the Panthers’ 30-27 victory.
Career Growth and Impact Since Joining the NFL
Rico Dowdle began his NFL journey with the Dallas Cowboys in 2020 as an undrafted free agent and spent five seasons with them. Initially, he served as the third-string running back behind established players Ezekiel Elliott and Tony Pollard. A hip injury sidelined him for the entire 2021 season, limiting his early career progression.
Dowdle experienced a breakout in 2024, rushing 235 times for 1,079 yards and two touchdowns, alongside 39 receptions for 249 yards and three touchdowns with the Panthers. He earned starts in 11 games and consistently stepped up when Chuba Hubbard was unavailable due to injury. Despite this, his usage dropped late in the season, leading him to enter free agency once again.
Potential Impact of Dowdle’s Free Agency Decision
The Dallas Cowboys may reassess their earlier move to let Dowdle depart, especially considering his production during the season. While Javonte Williams managed an impressive 1,201 rushing yards for Carolina, Dowdle’s contributions have given Dallas reasons to consider a reunion. His ability to perform under pressure and fill critical roles in the backfield makes him an attractive option for teams seeking versatile running backs.
As free agency progresses, Dowdle’s next destination will likely hinge on where he can secure a starting or significant role that meets his ambitions for playing time and impact. For the Cowboys, bringing Dowdle back could provide depth and experience to complement their existing roster.
Rico Dowdle Would Consider a Return To Dallas pic.twitter.com/trDEelTJdv
— DLLS Cowboys (@DLLS_Cowboys) February 5, 2026
