Rico Dowdle is a low-end RB2 with RB1 upside in favorable game scripts. In PPR leagues, his receiving work makes him a safer floor play than his ADP suggests. In standard scoring, he is a volatile flex option who depends on touchdown volume. For dynasty managers, he is a hold. For redraft, wait until after the NFL Draft to finalize your valuation.
The 2025 Season in Context
Dowdle entered 2025 as the Cowboys' third-string running back. By Week 6, he was the starter. Injuries to the backs ahead of him opened a door, and he walked through it. The numbers tell part of the story:
The receiving work stands out. Dowdle caught 38 passes on 46 targets, good for an 82.6% catch rate. He lined up in the slot on 15% of his snaps, more than any Cowboys running back in the past five seasons. Offensive coordinator Brian Schottenheimer trusted him in passing situations.
The touchdown numbers disappointed. Six rushing touchdowns and one receiving touchdown in 13 games. Dallas struggled in the red zone all season. Dowdle was not the problem, but he paid the price in fantasy scoring.
Strengths That Translate to Fantasy
Pass-Catching Ability
Dowdle runs routes like a receiver. His college tape at South Carolina showed this, and his NFL usage confirmed it. He creates separation on option routes. He catches the ball cleanly. In PPR formats, this floor matters.
Compare him to other committee backs: he outproduced Jaylen Warren in receptions and matched Kareem Hunt's target share despite fewer starts.
Vision and Patience
Dowdle does not run into his blockers' backs. He waits for lanes to develop. This patience showed up in his contact balance numbers. He averaged 2.8 yards after contact per attempt, above the league average of 2.4.
Durability
After years of practice squad time, Dowdle handled 220 touches in 2025 without a significant injury. His 28-year-old age is not ideal, but his body shows no signs of wear.
Weaknesses That Limit Ceiling
Lack of Breakaway Speed
Dowdle does not create chunk plays. His longest run of 2025 was 34 yards. He does not have the top-end speed to turn a 15-yard gain into a 60-yard touchdown. In fantasy, this limits his week-winning upside.
Touchdown Dependence on Volume
Dowdle needs 18+ touches to hit RB1 numbers. In games where he received fewer than 15 touches, he averaged 8.2 PPR points. In games with 15+ touches, he averaged 17.4 PPR points. The difference is stark.
Uncertain Contract Situation
Dowdle enters 2026 as a restricted free agent. The Cowboys could tender him at a low level, leaving him vulnerable to an offer sheet. If Dallas drafts a running back in rounds 2-3, Dowdle's role shrinks immediately.
2026 ADP Analysis
Current ADP in 12-team PPR leagues: RB28 (Round 5-6 range).
This feels about right. He is drafted behind the clear RB1s and behind the high-upside second-year backs. He is drafted ahead of aging veterans and unproven rookies. The value is fair, not discounted.
If the Cowboys do not draft a running back before Round 4, expect his ADP to rise 10-15 spots by August. If they select a back in Round 2, expect it to fall 20 spots.
Dynasty and Keeper League Value
In dynasty, Dowdle is a hold. Selling now means accepting a discount. His trade value sits around a late second-round rookie pick. That is not enough to move a starting running back.
In keeper leagues, he is worth a 7th-round keeper cost. If your league charges higher, consider letting him go back into the draft pool and reacquiring at market price.
Week-to-Week Projection
Projected 2026 Season Stats
- Games: 16 (projected full health)
- Rushing: 180 carries, 770 yards, 6 TDs
- Receiving: 45 receptions, 340 yards, 2 TDs
- PPR Points: 198 (12.4 per game)
- Finish: RB22-RB28 range
Final Verdict
Dowdle is not a league winner. He is a roster stabilizer. If you need a reliable RB2 with a steady floor, he fits. If you need upside to overcome weak roster spots elsewhere, look for boom-or-bust options instead.
Draft him in Round 5-6 of PPR leagues. Avoid reaching in Round 4. And monitor the NFL Draft closely. One selection changes everything.