- Rico Dowdle
- #23
- Team DAL
- Pos RB
- Status AActive
-
Remaining with Dallas
Dowdle is set to re-sign with the Cowboys, Jon Machota of The Athletic reports.
Analysis: Following the free-agent departure of Tony Pollard, Dowdle is poised to reclaim his role in a Dallas backfield that also currently includes Deuce Vaughn, Malik Davis and Snoop Conner. Chances are, the Cowboys will add further RB depth via free agency or the draft, so until the team's personnel at the position is settled, Dowdle's fantasy upside for the 2024 season will be difficult to gauge.
Published: Mon, Mar 18 at 3:31pm by Rotowire.com
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Strong season in backup role
Dowdle finished the regular season with 361 yards and two touchdowns on 89 carries while catching 17 of 22 targets for 144 yards and two more TDs over 16 games.
Analysis: The 25-year-old running back made his NFL debut with the Cowboys in 2020 but had only seven career carries coming into 2023. Dowdle won the No. 2 job in the backfield behind Tony Pollard in camp and never looked back, setting career highs across the board and posting a couple big performances in blowouts, including 79 yards and a TD on 12 totes against the Giants in Week 10. Dowdle is a restricted free agent this offseason while Pollard is unrestricted, but even if the former stays and the…read more
Published: Mon, Jan 22 at 8:47am by Rotowire.com
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Reaches century mark in Week 18
Dowdle carried the ball nine times for 46 yards and caught three of four targets for 54 yards in Sunday's 38-10 rout of the Commanders.
Analysis: The backup running back mixed in regularly with Tony Pollard in the Cowboys backfield before taking over completely in the fourth quarter, and Dowdle wound up reaching 100 yards from scrimmage in a game for the first time in his career while seeing double-digit touches for the fourth time this year. The 25-year-old had a solid regular season in his depth role, amassing 505 total yards and four touchdowns (two rushing, two receiving) on 106 touches, and Dowdle should remain involved in the game…read more
Published: Mon, Jan 8 at 9:18am by Rotowire.com
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Gets back to full participation
Dowdle (ankle) practiced in full Thursday, Jon Machota of The Athletic reports.
Analysis: After sitting out Week 17 due to a lingering ankle injury, Dowdle appears set to resume his standing as the Cowboys' No. 2 running back behind starter Tony Pollard on Sunday at Washington, as he has for most of the season. Since the Cowboys' Week 7 bye, Dowdle has turned 61 touches into 248 yards from scrimmage and three total TDs over the last nine games.
Published: Thu, Jan 4 at 2:31pm by Rotowire.com
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Limited Wednesday
Dowdle (ankle) was a limited participant in Wednesday's practice, Todd Archer of ESPN.com reports.
Analysis: Dowdle has been dealing with the ankle issue for weeks and was ultimately deemed inactive ahead of last Saturday's win over the Lions. In his place, Deuce Vaughn served as the top backup to Tony Pollard and played eight snaps on offense, but Vaughn has since been placed on injured reserve with an ankle injury. If Dowdle isn't ready to play in the Cowboys' regular-season finale this Sunday in Washington, Malik Davis would likely be elevated from the practice squad to serve as Dallas' No. 2 back…read more
Published: Wed, Jan 3 at 3:46pm by Rotowire.com
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Not playing Saturday
Dowdle (ankle) has been ruled out for Saturday's game against the Lions, Jon Machota of The Athletic reports.
Analysis: Dowdle has been playing through an ankle injury in the Cowboys' previous six games, but he apparently reached a breaking point this week after missing back-to-back practices Wednesday and Thursday. His absence could mean Deuce Vaughn is active for the first time since Week 10, but the team may lean on fullback Hunter Luepke instead or otherwise sign Malik Davis off the practice squad to serve as a reserve option behind top RB Tony Pollard.
Published: Thu, Dec 28 at 1:18pm by Rotowire.com
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No practice Wednesday
Dowdle (ankle) didn't practice Wednesday, Ralph Vacchiano of Fox Sports reports.
Analysis: One day removed from being limited at Tuesday's walkthrough, Dowdle was held out of drills entirely. Thus, he'll have only more chance to practice this week before the Cowboys potentially make a ruling on his status for Saturday's game against the Lions.
Published: Wed, Dec 27 at 3:05pm by Rotowire.com
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Limited Tuesday
Dowdle (ankle) was estimated as a limited participant for Tuesday's practice, Jon Machota of The Athletic reports.
Analysis: Dowdle has been nursing this ankle injury for over a month but continues to play through it. In this past Sunday's 22-20 loss to the Dolphins, Dowdle logged just 11 snaps on offense, finishing the day with just two carries for four yards while failing to haul in either of his targets. Dowdle should be ready to play Saturday against the Lions, but he may once again be relegated to a light role behind starting running back Tony Pollard.
Published: Tue, Dec 26 at 2:47pm by Rotowire.com
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Cleared for Week 16
Dowdle (ankle) doesn't have an injury designation for Sunday's game against the Dolphins, Bobby Belt of 105.3 The Fan Dallas reports.
Analysis: Dowdle has been listed on the injury report for six weeks without ever missing a game. He'll again work off the bench as the Cowboys' No. 2 back behind Tony Pollard.
Published: Fri, Dec 22 at 3:43pm by Rotowire.com
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Another limited session
Dowdle (ankle) was limited at Thursday's practice, Jon Machota of The Athletic reports.
Analysis: For a sixth week in a row, Dowdle is operating with practice restrictions due to a lingering ankle issue. He's still been able to suit up for the past five game days, turning 38 touches into 132 yards from scrimmage and two TDs while working as Tony Pollard's primary backup. Friday's injury report will unveil whether or not Dowdle enters the weekend with a designation for Sunday's visit to Miami.
Published: Thu, Dec 21 at 1:34pm by Rotowire.com
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Stays limited at practice
Dowdle (ankle) practiced in a limited fashion Wednesday, Jon Machota of The Athletic reports.
Analysis: As has been the case in advance of each of the Cowboys' previous five games, Dowdle is again tending to an ankle injury. The health concern hasn't stopped him from playing a regular, albeit small, role in the Dallas offense, as evidenced by 31 carries and seven catches (on eight targets) for 132 yards from scrimmage and two total touchdowns that he's generated during that stretch. Even if he has practice restrictions through Friday, Dowdle could still enter the weekend without a designation for…read more
Published: Wed, Dec 20 at 3:49pm by Rotowire.com
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Five touches in Week 15 loss
Dowdle carried the ball three times for four yards and caught two of three targets for eight yards in Sunday's 31-10 loss to the Bills.
Analysis: The Cowboys offense sputtered once again on the road, and Dowdle's 12 yards from scrimmage was his lowest output since he managed only eight yards in Philadelphia back in Week 9. The No. 2 running back has only seen double-digit touches in a game three times all season, and Dowdle will be little more than a desperation dart throw Week 16 against the Dolphins.
Published: Mon, Dec 18 at 1:44pm by Rotowire.com
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Ready to face Buffalo
Dowdle (ankle) doesn't have an injury designation ahead of Sunday's game against the Bills, Michael Gehlken of The Dallas Morning News reports.
Analysis: Dowdle has been playing through the ankle issue for weeks, and Week 15 will be no different. He matched his season high with 12 carries last week against the Eagles, turning them into 46 yards and his fourth touchdown of the season. Dowdle will continue to mix in behind Tony Pollard.
Published: Fri, Dec 15 at 1:12pm by Rotowire.com
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Another limited showing
Dowdle (ankle) was a limited practice participant Thursday, Jon Machota of The Athletic reports.
Analysis: Dowdle also was listed as limited on Wednesday's practice estimate, giving him just one more opportunity to get back to all activity this week before the Cowboys potentially tag him with a designation ahead of Sunday's game at Buffalo. He's been able to play through his ankle injury in each of Dallas' previous four contests, combining for 33 touches for 120 yards from scrimmage and two TDs during that span while working behind starting running back Tony Pollard.
Published: Thu, Dec 14 at 1:07pm by Rotowire.com
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Limited listing Wednesday
Dowdle (ankle) was listed as a limited participant on Wednesday's practice report, Todd Archer of ESPN.com reports.
Analysis: Dowdle has had practice restrictions before each of the Cowboys' previous four games, but he ultimately has been able to suit up on all four occasions en route to 28 carries for 95 yards and one touchdown and five catches (on five targets) for 25 yards and another score while working behind starting back Tony Pollard. Assuming he gets through Week 15 prep unscathed, Dowdle should play a similar role Sunday at Buffalo.
Published: Wed, Dec 13 at 3:11pm by Rotowire.com
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Gets into end zone Sunday
Dowdle carried the ball 12 times for 46 yards and a touchdown and caught his only target for six yards in Sunday's win over the Eagles.
Analysis: The running back punched in a one-yard TD in the second quarter, although it took a review to confirm the ball had gotten across the goal line in the scrum. Dowdle saw nearly as many carries as Tony Pollard's 16, but the Cowboys' starter dominated work out of the backfield in the passing game. Dowdle has emerged as a solid backup for Dallas this season, scoring four total touchdowns (two rushing, two receiving) with 389 yards from scrimmage across 13 games, and Sunday's game was the third time…read more
Published: Mon, Dec 11 at 10:05am by Rotowire.com
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Cleared for Week 14 action
Dowdle (ankle) was a full participant in Friday's practice and doesn't have an injury designation for Sunday's game against the Eagles, Jon Machota of The Athletic reports.
Analysis: Dowdle appeared on Dallas injury reports for each of the past three weeks due to an ankle issue, but he proceeded to play in every contest. Though the Cowboys managed his practice workload once again in Week 14, Dowdle will be ready to handle his usual duties as the team's No. 2 running back behind Tony Pollard this Sunday. Through his 12 appearances on the season, Dowdle has found the end zone three times while averaging 5.3 carries and 0.9 catches for 28.1 scrimmage yards per game.
Published: Fri, Dec 8 at 1:56pm by Rotowire.com
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Another limited session
Dowdle (ankle) practiced on a limited basis Thursday, Jon Machota of The Athletic reports.
Analysis: Dowdle maintained his activity level from one day prior as he continues to tend to an ankle injury, giving him just one more day to get back to full before the Cowboys potentially make a call on his status ahead of Sunday's showdown with the Eagles. If he's able to suit up, as he's done the previous three games with the health concern, he should be good for his typical snap share (18-26 percent) and touches (4-10) from the aforementioned span behind starting running back Tony Pollard.
Published: Thu, Dec 7 at 1:58pm by Rotowire.com
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Limited Wednesday
Dowdle (ankle) was a limited participant at practice Wednesday, Michael Gehlken of The Dallas Morning News reports.
Analysis: For a fourth consecutive week, Dowdle is tending to an ankle issue, but he at least is beginning Week 14 prep with a cap on his practice reps rather than sitting out Wednesday's session entirely. Over the last three games, he's mustered just 3.1 yards on his 16 carries and has hauled in all four targets for 19 yards and a touchdown. A similar role will be in store for Dowdle in Sunday's game against the Eagles as long as the Cowboys' lead runner, Tony Pollard, is healthy.
Published: Wed, Dec 6 at 12:55pm by Rotowire.com
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Does little with six touches
Dowdle rushed five times for 15 yards and brought in his only target for seven yards in the Cowboys' 41-35 win over the Seahawks on Thursday night.
Analysis: Dowdle logged 15 fewer carries and three less targets than backfield mate Tony Pollard, and the former did little with his opportunities. The third-year pro has been quiet over the last three games after his season-best 12-79-1 rushing day against the Giants in Week 10, with Dowdle netting just 49 yards on 16 carries and posting a 4-19-1 line through the air in the subsequent trio of contests. Dowdle figures to continue operating in a clear No. 2 role when the Cowboys face a virtually…read more
Published: Thu, Nov 30 at 10:16pm by Rotowire.com
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In clear for Week 13
Dowdle (ankle) doesn't have an injury designation for Thursday's game against the Seahawks, Jon Machota of The Athletic reports.
Analysis: For a second consecutive week, Dowdle is tending to an ankle injury, only this time he took part in more on-field work, as evidenced by his ability to practice fully Wednesday. He's thus set to resume his complementary role behind the Cowboys' No. 1 running back, Tony Pollard, which has amounted to 35 touches for 158 yards from scrimmage and two touchdowns in five games since the team's Week 7 bye.
Published: Wed, Nov 29 at 12:53pm by Rotowire.com
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Stays limited in practice
Dowdle (ankle) was listed as a limited participant in Tuesday's practice, Jon Machota of The Athletic reports.
Analysis: Dowdle has had his reps capped for the second day in a row, but after the running back experienced no reported setbacks in the team's Thanksgiving Day win over the Commanders, he'll most likely be available for a second consecutive Thursday game against the Seahawks this week. While serving as the top complement to lead back Tony Pollard in the 45-10 win over Washington, Dowdle carried three times for 11 yards and turned his lone target into a 15-yard touchdown reception.
Published: Tue, Nov 28 at 12:41pm by Rotowire.com
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Still tending to ankle injury
Dowdle (ankle) was a limited participant at practice Monday, Jon Machota of The Athletic reports.
Analysis: That he was still bothered by his ankle would serve as a reasonable explanation for his limited usage in Week 12, when he played just nine offensive snaps. It doesn't seem like he's in any real danger of missing Thursday's game versus the Seahawks, but if he can't practice in full Tuesday or Wednesday, he could project for another diminished workload in Week 13.
Published: Mon, Nov 27 at 1:14pm by Rotowire.com
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Scores in Thanksgiving win
Dowdle carried the ball three times for 11 yards and caught his only target for a 15-yard touchdown in a 45-10 Thanksgiving win over the Commanders.
Analysis: The Cowboys' No. 2 running back opened the scoring late in the first quarter to get the rout started. The TD was his third of the season, but the four total touches was his lowest volume since Week 9. Dowdle's role behind Tony Pollard limits his fantasy appeal, but his occasional red-zone usage gives him a chance to sneak in another score in Week 13 against a Seahawks defense that's given up 14 total touchdowns to RBs through 11 games.
Published: Mon, Nov 27 at 11:29am by Rotowire.com
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Suiting up in Week 12
Dowdle (ankle) is listed as active Thursday against the Commanders, Todd Archer of ESPN.com reports.
Analysis: Dowdle followed up DNPs on the Cowboys' first two Week 12 practice reports due to an ankle injury with a limited listing Wednesday, which gave the team enough confidence that he'll be able to hold up during Thursday's contest. Tony Pollard is Dallas' clear-cut top running back, but Dowdle has had an elevated role the last two games, turning 22 touches into 99 yards from scrimmage and one rushing TD.
Published: Thu, Nov 23 at 12:11pm by Rotowire.com
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Expected to face Commanders
Dowdle (ankle) is expected to play Thursday against the Commanders, Ian Rappaport of NFL Network reports.
Analysis: Dowdle approaches the contest officially listed as questionable, but per Rappaport, the running back is trending toward being available to work in a complementary role Thursday behind top back Tony Pollard. Either way, confirmation of Dowdle's Week 12 status will arrive once the Cowboys' inactives are posted ahead of the team's 4:30 p.m. ET kickoff.
Published: Thu, Nov 23 at 5:33am by Rotowire.com
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Questionable after limited practice
Dowdle (ankle) is officially listed as questionable for Thursday's game against the Commanders.
Analysis: Dowdle, who was deemed a limited participant on Wednesday's practice estimate, has been tending to the ankle injury since Week 11 prep. He took a questionable tag into last Sunday's game against the Panthers, but he ultimately suited up and played 10 snaps in Dallas' 33-10 win. If he's able to play once again Thursday, Dowdle should continue to operate as the top backup to Tony Pollard.
Published: Wed, Nov 22 at 12:14pm by Rotowire.com
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DNP again Tuesday
Dowdle (ankle) was listed as a non-participant on Tuesday's injury report, Jon Machota of The Athletic reports.
Analysis: After not holding practice Monday, the Cowboys got back on the field Tuesday, but Dowdle remained absent from drills. He will have just one more chance to get in practice reps before Thursday's game against the Commanders. If Dowdle is limited or out Week 12, rookie Deuce Vaughn would be the likeliest candidate for increased touches behind starter Tony Pollard.
Published: Tue, Nov 21 at 2:46pm by Rotowire.com
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Non-participant on estimated report
Dowdle (ankle) was listed as a non-participant on Monday's estimated practice report, Todd Archer of ESPN.com reports.
Analysis: Dowdle was added to the Week 11 injury report Saturday but was cleared ahead of Sunday's 33-10 win over the Panthers, totaling 20 yards on 10 touches behind lead back Tony Pollard. As long as he didn't suffer any setbacks versus Carolina, Dowdle should be ready to play Thursday against the Commanders in Week 12.
Published: Mon, Nov 20 at 1:56pm by Rotowire.com
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Ten touches in rout
Dowdle carried the ball eight times for 23 yards and caught both his targets for minus-three yards in Sunday's 33-10 win over the Panthers.
Analysis: The Cowboys were again on cruise control late in the game, and Dowdle has seen double-digit touches in back-to-back weeks as a result. The output against Carolina wasn't nearly as impressive as the 79 rushing yards and a TD that Dowdle amassed against the Giants last week, however, and the South Carolina product remains firmly behind Tony Pollard in the Dallas backfield ahead of a Thanksgiving tilt against the Commanders.
Published: Mon, Nov 20 at 9:44am by Rotowire.com
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Ready for Week 11
Dowdle (ankle) is officially active for Sunday's game at Carolina, Michael Gehlken of The Dallas Morning News reports.
Analysis: The 25-year-old was added to the injury report Saturday with an ankle issue, but it won't affect his availability for Sunday's contest. Fellow tailback Deuce Vaughn (coach's decision) is inactive, so Dowdle shouldn't have any limitations in the No. 2 role. Dowdle is coming off his most productive game of the season with 12 carries for 79 yards and a touchdown during last week's blowout win over the Giants.
Published: Sun, Nov 19 at 9:04am by Rotowire.com
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Gets questionable tag
The Cowboys announced Saturday that Dowdle (ankle) has been downgraded to questionable for Sunday's game against the Panthers, Michael Gehlken of The Dallas Morning News reports.
Analysis: Dowdle appears to have picked up an ankle injury during Saturday's walk-through practice. His status for Week 11 now may not be revealed until 90 minutes ahead of Sunday's 1:00 p.m. ET kickoff. The No. 2 running back scored his first rushing touchdown last week versus the Giants, while he also logged a career-high 79 rushing yards on 12 carries.
Published: Sat, Nov 18 at 12:31pm by Rotowire.com
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Cashes in garbage-time chances
Dowdle carried the ball 12 times for 79 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's 49-17 win over the Giants.
Analysis: The Cowboys' No. 2 running back saw a handful of touches in the first half, but Dowdle had the backfield to himself in the fourth quarter after Dallas began resting its starters in the rout, and he took advantage, punching in a one-yard TD for the team's final score of the day. Tony Pollard managed only 55 rushing yards on 15 carries, but despite his recent struggles there's been no indication his hold on the starting role is slipping, and this was the first time all season Dowdle saw more than…read more
Published: Sun, Nov 12 at 7:44pm by Rotowire.com
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Seven touches against Rams
Dowdle carried the ball five times for 18 yards and caught both his targets for seven yards in Sunday's 43-20 win over the Rams.
Analysis: The Cowboys didn't need their running game to contribute much on a day when Dak Prescott was posting his best numbers of the season and the defense was also producing points, but Dowdle still saw his largest touch volume since Week 3. It would take an injury to Tony Pollard for Dallas' No. 2 RB to have significant fantasy value in most formats, but Dowdle has shown enough this season to be secure in his role as the top backup.
Published: Mon, Oct 30 at 8:10am by Rotowire.com
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Handles three carries in win
Dowdle rushed three times for 12 yards in Monday's 20-17 win over the Chargers.
Analysis: Dowdle played just 10 of the Cowboys' 64 offensive snaps Monday while starter Tony Pollard saw 51 snaps in the contest. Though Dowdle has shown some burst in the ground game, the veteran running back is not being used enough to maintain consistent production. With that said, Dowdle would be an intriguing fantasy option if Pollard were to miss time during the season. Barring an injury, the 25-year-old should remain in consideration as a solid handcuff with little stand-alone value heading into…read more
Published: Wed, Oct 18 at 5:11am by Rotowire.com
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Turns in full practice
Dowdle (hip) was a full participant in Thursday's practice, Calvin Watkins of The Dallas Morning News reports.
Analysis: Dowdle sat out Wednesday's session, but his return to full activity a day later suggests his absence for the Cowboys' first Week 5 practice may have been more precautionary than anything else. He looks like he'll be ready to go for Sunday's contest against the 49ers, but he could be in store for a lighter workload than normal with the Cowboys likely to lean more heavily on lead back Tony Pollard in a matchup between NFC heavyweights. Dowdle has carried 20 times for 80 scoreless yards through…read more
Published: Thu, Oct 5 at 1:51pm by Rotowire.com
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Still dealing with injury
Cowboys head coach Mike McCarthy said that Dowdle (hip) won't practice Wednesday, Michael Gehlken of The Dallas Morning News reports.
Analysis: Dowdle suffered a hip contusion in Sunday's 38-3 win over the Patriots and will spend the Cowboys' first Week 5 practice session rehabbing the injury. He'll likely need to get back on the field Thursday or Friday to have a chance to suit up Sunday against the 49ers. If Dowdle is unable to play through the hip injury, Deuce Vaughn would be in line to work as the top backup to Tony Pollard.
Published: Wed, Oct 4 at 10:41am by Rotowire.com
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Diagnosed with hip contusion
Dowdle has been diagnosed with a hip contusion following an MRI on Monday, Michael Gehlken of The Dallas Morning News reports.
Analysis: Dowdle left Sunday's blowout win over the Patriots due to a hip injury after carrying the ball three times for nine yards and hauling in his lone target for an additional eight yards. The running back missed the entire 2021 season due to a fracture in the same hip, which sparked concern, but it appears he's avoided a major injury for now. Dowdle's status for Sunday night's matchup against San Francisco remains unclear, but further clarity should surface when Dallas has to release its first…read more
Published: Mon, Oct 2 at 10:40am by Rotowire.com
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Getting MRI on hip
Dowdle (hip) is scheduled to get an MRI on the hip injury he suffered in Sunday's 38-3 win over the Patriots, Michael Gehlken of The Dallas Morning News reports.
Analysis: Dowdle missed the entire 2021 season due to a fracture in the same hip. if Dowdle is unable to play in Week 5 against the 49ers, Deuce Vaughn would be in line to work as the top backup to Tony Pollard in Dallas' backfield. Before exiting Sunday's win, Dowdle played six snaps on offense and carried three times for nine yards. while corralling his lone target for an eight-yard reception.
Published: Sun, Oct 1 at 9:42pm by Rotowire.com
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Ruled out against New England
The Cowboys have ruled Dowdle (hip) out for the remainder of Sunday's game against New England, Michael Gehlken of The Dallas Morning News reports.
Analysis: Dowdle will not return to the game after carrying the ball three times for nine yards and hauling in his lone target for an additional eight yards. With the 25-year-old out, Deuce Vaughn should be in line for increased playing time.
Published: Sun, Oct 1 at 3:36pm by Rotowire.com
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Scores first career TD
Dowdle carried the ball four times for 21 yards and caught all three of his targets for 25 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's 28-16 loss to the Cardinals.
Analysis: Starting running back Tony Pollard ran for 122 yards on the day, but it was Dowdle who found the end zone, catching a 15-yard pass from Dak Prescott in the second quarter for Dallas' only TD. The touchdown was the first of Dowdle's NFL career in his 23rd game. As long as Pollard remains healthy, Dowdle's fantasy ceiling will be limited, but he's seen between six and eight touches in every game so far in 2023.
Published: Sun, Sep 24 at 7:54pm by Rotowire.com
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Eight touches in Sunday's win
Dowdle carried the ball seven times for 26 yards and caught his only target for 17 yards in Sunday's 30-10 win over the Jets.
Analysis: Tony Pollard saw 32 touches as the Cowboys' lead back and produced 109 yards from scrimmage, but Dowdle, Deuce Vaughn and KaVontae Turpin combined for 17 touches between them as Dallas romped to another big victory. As long as the team keeps blowing away opponents -- something that could easily happen again Week 3 against the winless Cardinals -- there will be opportunities for the backup options at RB to poach a little fantasy value, but it would take an injury to Pollard to make Dowdle a…read more
Published: Mon, Sep 18 at 9:37am by Rotowire.com
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Late usage in rout
Dowdle carried the ball six times for 24 yards in Sunday's 40-0 win over the Giants.
Analysis: The Cowboys' defense and special teams units took control of the game early before Tony Pollard punched in two short TDs, so Dowdle saw most of his action in what was effectively garbage time. Dowdle was more productive than rookie Deuce Vaughn on the same numbers of touches, however. With Pollard locked into the top spot on the backfield depth chart, there may not be many opportunities left over for any other backs, but Dowdle at least seems to be the clear No. 2 option.
Published: Mon, Sep 11 at 6:29am by Rotowire.com
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Part of initial roster
Dowdle is a part of the Cowboys' initial 53-man roster following roster cuts Tuesday, Jon Machota of The Athletic reports.
Analysis: Behind Tony Pollard, the situation in Dallas' backfield has crystallized somewhat, with Dowdle and Deuce Vaughn, plus fullback Hunter Luepke, making the team over Malik Davis. With Ronald Jones suspended for the first two games of the campaign, Dowdle will be among the options to spell Pollard in the early going. In three preseason games, Dowdle performed well to the tune of 14 carries for 59 yards and five catches on six targets for 42 yards and one touchdown.
Published: Tue, Aug 29 at 3:06pm by Rotowire.com
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Records receiving TD
Dowdle rushed eight times for 38 yards and brought in two of three targets for nine yards and a touchdown in the Cowboys' 22-14 preseason loss to the Seahawks on Saturday night. He also returned one kickoff for 23 yards.
Analysis: Dowdle tied with Malik Davis for the team lead in carries and set the pace in rushing yards. The 25-year-old, who was the first Dallas running back to log a touch Saturday, could be making up ground on Davis for a roster spot after two solid exhibition efforts. He should have a final chance to make a case for himself in next Saturday night's home preseason finale against the Raiders.
Published: Sat, Aug 19 at 11:11pm by Rotowire.com
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Solid game marred by fumble
Dowdle carried the ball six times for 21 yards and caught all three of his targets for 33 yards in Saturday's 28-23 preseason loss to the Jaguars.
Analysis: Deuce Vaughn was the star of the Cowboys backfield Saturday, but Dowdle outproduced presumed No. 2 RB Malik Davis, who got the start but managed only 22 yards from scrimmage on eight touches. Unfortunately, Dowdle also committed a crucial fumble just outside Jacksonville's end zone at the end of the first quarter after catching a short pass from Cooper Rush. The battle for backup snaps behind Tony Pollard (ankle) remains open, but Dowdle likely can't afford many more big mistakes if he wants to…read more
Published: Sun, Aug 13 at 11:07am by Rotowire.com
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Making push for backup spot
Dowdle is in the mix to win the top backup job behind Tony Pollard in the Cowboys' backfield, Michael Gehlken of the Dallas Morning News reports.
Analysis: The 25-year-old has just seven NFL carries since being signed as an undrafted free agent out of South Carolina in 2020, as injuries have disrupted his career so far, but Dowdle is drawing high marks in training camp for his football IQ and blocking ability. His value as a special-teams player could secure him a spot on the 53-man roster regardless of how much usage he sees on offense, but with Ronald Jones (suspension) set to miss the first two games of the regular season, the door is open for…read more
Published: Thu, Aug 3 at 8:14am by Rotowire.com
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Re-ups with Dallas
The Cowboys are re-signing Dowdle on Tuesday, Calvin Watkins of The Dallas Morning News reports.
Analysis: Dowdle rejoins a Dallas backfield room now lacking Ezekiel Elliott, currently making him the No. 3 man behind Tony Pollard (ankle) and Malik Davis. Of course, the Cowboys will likely still add personnel to the backfield as the offseason progresses. Dowdle mostly handled special-teams work in his five appearances last season.
Published: Tue, Mar 21 at 6:42am by Rotowire.com
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Not tendered by Dallas
Dallas didn't extend Dowdle (ankle) a qualifying offer or contract tender as a restricted free agent Wednesday, so he's officially an unrestricted free agent, per the NFL's transaction log.
Analysis: Dowdle appeared in five games for the Cowboys in 2022, playing nearly exclusively on special teams, before landing on injured reserve with an ankle injury in October. He spent the rest of the season on IR, but now that he's healthy, the undrafted running back out of South Carolina will look to land a new deal in free agency. The 24-year-old also has experience as a kick returner, would should boost his value this summer.
Published: Wed, Mar 15 at 3:51pm by Rotowire.com
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IR bound with ankle injury
Dallas placed Dowdle (ankle) on its injured reserve list Saturday.
Analysis: Dowdle will be forced to sit out for at least the next four games after appearing in all of the Cowboys' first five games this season. In a corresponding move, Malik Davis was elevated from the practice squad to the active roster.
Published: Sat, Oct 15 at 3:01pm by Rotowire.com
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Ruled out for Week 6
Dowdle (ankle) has been ruled out for Sunday's matchup against the Eagles, Michael Gehlken of The Dallas Morning News reports.
Analysis: It's unclear when Dowdle picked up the ankle injury, but he was sidelined for each practice this week and has been ruled out for Sunday's contest. His absence won't be a major loss to the Cowboys offense as the running back played primarily on special teams during the first five games of the season, but his absence could open up room for Malik Davis to be elevated from the practice squad.
Published: Fri, Oct 14 at 1:57pm by Rotowire.com
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Misses practice Thursday
Dowdle (ankle) was unable to practice Thursday, Michael Gehlken of The Dallas Morning News reports.
Analysis: Dowdle missed a second consecutive practice Thursday due to an ankle injury, and leaving his status for Sunday night's divisional showdown against the Eagles up in the air. Expect rookie running back Malik Davis to make his NFL debut against Philadelphia if Dowdle can't suit up.
Published: Thu, Oct 13 at 7:29pm by Rotowire.com
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Gets spot on initial 53-man
Dowdle has a spot on the Cowboys' initial 53-man roster, Todd Archer of ESPN.com reports.
Analysis: Dowdle has been with the Cowboys since first signing as an undrafted rookie in 2020, and he spent all of last season on injured reserve after fracturing his hip in August. He's healthy this year and seems to have won the No. 3 running back job, though it's often a fluid position with teams scouring the waiver wire for alternatives.
Published: Tue, Aug 30 at 1:21pm by Rotowire.com
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Opens preseason loss as starter
Dowdle (illness) rushed nine times for 36 yards in the Cowboys' 17-7 preseason loss to the Broncos on Saturday night.
Analysis: Dowdle fared reasonably well with his opportunities and paced the Cowboys in carries on the night. The 24-year-old Dowdle and undrafted rookie Malik Davis, his primary competitor for the No. 3 running back job, were similarly productive, so their job battle will continue in next Saturday night's road exhibition matchup against the Chargers.
Published: Sat, Aug 13 at 9:20pm by Rotowire.com
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Out for now
Dowdle will miss the remainder of this week's training camp practices after testing positive for COVID-19 on Thursday, Michael Gehlken of The Dallas Morning News reports.
Analysis: Dowdle is going through a rough stretch, having missed the 2021 season with a hip fracture and then getting his knee scoped in May, which led to his absence from OTAs. He'll now have to remain away from the team until he receives medical clearance. Dowdle joined the Cowboys as an undrafted free agent out of South Carolina in 2020 and saw the field for 15 contests in his rookie season, but he mostly just contributed on special teams. Dowdle is currently No. 3 on Dallas' running back positional…read more
Published: Thu, Aug 4 at 8:30am by Rotowire.com
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All set at training camp
Dowdle (knee) was an active participant at Thursday's training camp session, Michael Gehlken of The Dallas Morning News reports.
Analysis: Dowdle had underwent a knee scope in May and didn't participate at OTAs, but he was back at practice for the first time Thursday. The running back produced 24 yards on seven carries while compiling 152 kick-return yards over 15 games with the Cowboys last season. Dowdle is expected to operate as a reserve option behind Ezekiel Elliott and Tony Pollard in 2022.
Published: Thu, Jul 28 at 12:29pm by Rotowire.com
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Gets knee scoped
Dowdle isn't participating in OTAs after recently undergoing a knee scope, Michael Gehlken of The Dallas Morning News reports.
Analysis: Dowdle spent the entire 2021 season on injured reserve due to a fractured hip, but he appears to have made a full recovery from that injury. Instead, making a full recovery from arthroscopic knee surgery is now the main concern for Dowdle, who is still expected to be ready to participate in training camp. If available for camp, Dowdle will be competing for a depth role in the Dallas backfield behind Ezekiel Elliott and Tony Pollard.
Published: Wed, May 25 at 2:05pm by Rotowire.com
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To IR with hip injury
Dowdle was placed on IR due to a hip injury Wednesday, Michael Gehlken of The Dallas Morning News reports.
Analysis: Dowdle is set to spend the entire 2021 campaign on IR, unless he can reach an injury settlement with the Cowboys. After having played a regular role on special teams as a rookie in 2020, Dowdle will now set his sights toward making a full recovery for the 2022 season.
Published: Wed, Aug 25 at 11:57am by Rotowire.com
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Placed on IR
The Cowboys placed Dowdle (undisclosed) on injured reserve Wednesday, Michael Gehlken of The Dallas Morning News reports.
Analysis: The timing of Dowdle's placement on IR rules him out for the entire 2021 season, barring an injury settlement. He was a consistent contributor on special teams across 15 appearances as a rookie, but Dowdle only handled seven carries in that span.
Published: Wed, Aug 25 at 11:07am by Rotowire.com
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Barely sees field as rookie
Dowdle gained 24 rushing yards on seven carries over 15 games in 2020.
Analysis: The undrafted rookie out of South Carolina carved out a regular role on special teams as the season went on, amassing 152 yards on kickoff returns, but he saw snaps on offense in only four games and was used sparingly. With Ezekiel Elliott and Tony Pollard both expected back in 2021, Dowdle should remain a depth option for Dallas if he retains his roster spot.
Published: Sat, Jan 16 at 9:03pm by Rotowire.com
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Limited action as No. 2
Dowdle carried the ball four times for 11 yards and returned three kickoffs for 88 yards in Sunday's win over the 49ers.
Analysis: With Ezekiel Elliott (calf) sidelined, Tony Pollard moved into the lead role in the backfield and erupted for 132 yards from scrimmage and two TDs, leaving Pollard's usual spot as the backup RB and kickoff returner in the hands of Dowdle. The undrafted rookie wasn't able to make much impact on offense, but he did impress as a return man. Even if Elliott returns to the lineup Week 16, Pollard's performance may earn him a bigger workload, potentially opening the door for Dowdle to become the…read more
Published: Mon, Dec 21 at 11:33am by Rotowire.com
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Elevates to top backup role
Dowdle is expected to serve as the Cowboys' top backup running back behind Tony Pollard with Ezekiel Elliott (calf) inactive for the contest, Michael Gehlken of The Dallas Morning News reports.
Analysis: So long as the contest remains competitive, expect Pollard to see the overwhelming share of snaps and touches out of the backfield, as Dowdle -- an undrafted rookie out of South Carolina -- has yet to be entrusted with a meaningful role on offense. Since logging three carries on three snaps in garbage time Week 6 against Arizona, Dowdle's action has come exclusively on special teams over the subsequent seven games.
Published: Sun, Dec 20 at 9:00am by Rotowire.com
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Could be active Sunday
Dowdle will likely be activated from the Cowboys' practice squad if Ezekiel Elliott is inactive as expected, Michael Gehlken of The Dallas Morning News reports.
Analysis: Dowdle saw a little bit of action in the Arizona Monday night debacle in Week 6, carrying the ball three times for 13 yards. In four years at South Carolina, he wasn't the full-time back, peaking at 764 rushing yards in his freshman year.
Published: Sat, Nov 7 at 11:09am by Rotowire.com
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