Rico Dowdle’s name wasn’t on the marquee for the Dallas Cowboys’ 2024 free agents. He wasn’t even the focus at running back with Tony Pollard’s contract also expiring. But now back on a one-year deal, Dowdle has a chance to be an important role player, and perhaps even more depending on how the rest of the offseason goes.
After two years of disappointing injuries, Dowdle finally stayed available and served as the primary backup to Pollard in 2023. He averaged 4.1 yards per carry, a tenth better than Pollard’s average, and showed consistent ability to get dirty yards with his tough running style.