Rico Dowdle

Free agent running back Rico Dowdle is signing with the Pittsburgh Steelers according to multiple reports.

Fantasy Impact

Dowdle is coming off of a second consecutive 1,000-yard rushing season as he totaled 1,076 yards and a career-high six touchdowns with the Carolina Panthers. He finished four yards shy of surpassing his career-high of 1,079 yards in his final season with Dallas in 2024. Dowdle has played five seasons in the NFL and has carried the ball 567 times - but 471 of those have come in the last two seasons. He'll be the new running mate to Jaylen Warren in the Steelers' backfield in 2026.

The Commanders have been linked to free agent RB Rico Dowdle.

Fantasy Impact

Washington is likely to add in a running back this offseason, whether it be in free agency or the NFL Draft. Dowdle could end up being a fairly affordable option for them.

ESPN’s David Newton believes Rico Dowdle is likely leaving the Panthers in free agency.

Fantasy Impact

Dowdle hinted to reporters after the season that he wanted to play for a team that would give him a bigger role after his role reduced late in the season with Carolina. If he does, Chuba Hubbard would likely enter next season as the lead back in the Panthers backfield.

Rico Dowdle ran for 10 yards on seven carries in the Panthers 16-14 loss against the Buccaneers. He also caught 2-of-2 targets for 20 yards receiving.

Fantasy Impact

Dowdle was completely shut down on the ground as was the entire Carolina rushing attack. He'll be facing a Rams team in the Wild Card that he ran for 58 yards on 18 carries against earlier this season.

Rico Dowdle was back at practice on Wednesday.

Fantasy Impact

Dowdle did not participate in Tuesday's walkthrough, but Panthers coach Dave Canales called it more of a "rest" day. He should be good to go for Week 18 against the Bucs.