Rico Dowdle Injury News & Updates

Dowdle rushed 19 times for 45 yards and caught five of seven targets for 55 yards in Sunday's 30-27 overtime win over the Falcons.

Although he didn't find the end zone and averaged just 2.3 yards per carry, Dowdle still notched his fourth 100-yard performance of the season in the Week 11 win. The Panthers' didn't lean on the rushing attack as heavily as usual, as quarterback Bryce Young had a career day with 448 passing yards and three touchdowns. Dowdle has now received 20 or more touches in five of Carolina's last seven games, reinforcing his role as a workhorse back. He'll look to improve his efficiency in a favorable Week 12 matchup against a 49ers defense that's struggled as of late.

Dowdle (quadriceps) doesn't have an injury designation for Sunday's game at Atlanta, Darin Gantt of panthers.com reports.

Dowlde played through the same quad injury last week and took 21 touches for 64 yards, but fantasy managers perhaps got a bit nervous after Dowdle didn't practice Wednesday. He returned Thursday as a limited participant, before upgrading to full participation Friday, which sets him up for another huge workload after back-to-back outings with more than 20 touches and a snap share well above 70 percent.

Dowdle (quadriceps) was a limited participant in Thursday's practice.

Head coach Dave Canales said Carolina's goal is to manage Dowdle's workload and have him ready for Sunday's road matchup against the Falcons, per Darin Gantt of the team's official site. As such, fantasy managers can be confident Dowdle will be available Week 11, barring any setbacks at Friday's practice. During the Panthers' loss to the Saints in Week 10, Dowdle remained solidified as the team's top backfield option while rushing 18 times for 53 yards and one score. He also hauled in all three of his targets for 10 yards.

Dowdle (quadriceps) was warming up prior to Wednesday's practice, Alex Zietlow of The Charlotte Observer reports.

Dowdle appears to be following a similar practice regimen to last week, when he followed Wednesday's DNP with a limited session Thursday and full showing Friday due to a quad issue. He continued to operate as the Panthers' lead runner this past Sunday against the Saints, turning 21 touches into 63 yards from scrimmage and one TD, while No. 2 RB Chuba Hubbard handled four touches for 15 total yards. Thursday's injury report will reveal Dowdle's activity level, or lack thereof.

Dowdle (quadriceps) did not practice Wednesday, Darin Gantt of the Panthers' official site reports.

Dowdle has sat out of Wednesday sessions regularly as of late, so it doesn't yet appear as though his current absence is anything out of the ordinary. As long as Dowdle manages to resume handling at least limited reps Thursday, he will be following his usual trend and be on the right trajectory for Sunday's road matchup against the Falcons. Dowdle has compiled at least 50 rushing yards in six consecutive games, with three 100-plus yardage performances and five total touchdowns in span.

Dowdle carried the ball 18 times for 53 yards and a touchdown and caught all three of his targets for 10 yards in Sunday's 17-7 loss to the Saints.

The yardage total was Dowdle's lowest since he took on a significant role in the Panthers' backfield in Week 5, but he did score his fifth rushing TD of the season on a five-yard dash in the first quarter for the team's only score. Over his last six games, Dowdle has piled up 705 rushing yards and four touchdowns while adding a 13-122-1 line on 17 targets. He'll look to staying productive in Week 11 against the Falcons.

Dowdle (quadriceps) doesn't have an injury designation for Sunday's game against the Saints, David Newton of ESPN.com reports.

After starting the week as a non-participant in practice, Dowdle upgraded to 'limited' on Thursday and 'full' on Friday, setting him up for another large workload at home against the one-win Saints. He took 27 touches for 141 yards and two TDs in an upset win at Green Bay last week, playing 72 percent of Carolina's snaps on offense in the process. Chuba Hubbard, meanwhile got five touches on 22 percent snap share.

Dowdle (quadriceps) was a limited participant in Thursday's practice.

After sitting out Wednesday's session, Dowdle took a step forward by practicing in a limited capacity Thursday. In order to avoid carrying a designation into Sunday's game against the Saints, Dowdle will likely need to upgrade to full activity Friday in the Panthers' final practice of the week. If he's cleared to play this weekend, Dowdle should be in line for another turn as Carolina's lead back after handily out-snapping and outproducing Chuba Hubbard in an upset win over the Packers in Week 9. In that contest, Dowdle accounted for 141 yards from scrimmage and two touchdowns on 27 touches while playing 72 percent of the snaps. Hubbard, meanwhile, handled a 22 percent snap share and was limited to 17 yards on five touches.

Dowdle (quadriceps) stretched before Thursday's practice and appears poised to take part in drills, David Newton of ESPN.com reports.

Dowdle sat out Wednesday's session due to a quad injury, but the fact he had a helmet after stretching indicates at least individual work is on the table for him. He resumed a workhorse role during this past Sunday's win at Green Bay, even with Chuba Hubbard available, taking 25 carries for 130 yards and two touchdowns and catching two of three targets for 11 yards. Meanwhile, Hubbard had just five carries for 17 yards and didn't haul in his only target. Thursday's practice report will reveal if Dowdle indeed progressed to a limited participant.

Dowdle (quadriceps) is not practicing Wednesday, Darin Gantt of the Panthers' official site reports.

Dowdle was the engine of Carolina's offense during the team's upset Week 9 win over Green Bay, in which he rushed 25 times for 130 yards and two scores while catching two of three targets for 11 yards. He clearly played through pain versus the Packers, however, so it's not a complete surprise to see Dowdle now a non-participant at practice. He'll have two more chances to officially get back on the practice field before the Panthers decide whether to assign Dowdle an injury designation for Sunday's matchup against the Saints.

Dowdle carried the ball 25 times for 130 yards and two touchdowns and caught two of three targets for 11 yards in Sunday's 16-13 win over the Packers.

The 27-year-old celebrated being anointed as the Panthers' clear No. 1 RB by delivering another massive performance, capped by a five-yard score in the second quarter and a one-yard plunge across the goal line in the third. Dowdle has amassed 652 rushing yards and three TDs over the last five games, while adding a 10-112-1 line on 14 targets through the air, and he figures to see a heavy workload again in Week 10 against the Saints.

Dowdle is expected to start Sunday's game at Green Bay and take a majority of carries, with Chuba Hubbard still part of the offense in a lesser role, Joe Person of The Athletic reports.

The writing was on the wall Monday when Panthers coach Dave Canales told reporters, "we cannot ignore the fact that [Dowdle] has been exceptional." Canales also mentioned how much Hubbard has meant to the organization, which is perhaps a hint that Dowdle won't have strong job security even if he does take on much larger workloads short-term. Dowdle and Hubbard largely alternated drives the past two weeks, with neither providing much fantasy production even though Dowdle's per-touch efficiency remained strong. Maintaining that efficiency in Week 9 will be difficult, to say the least, as the Panthers are dealing with a slew of offensive line injuries while facing a top defense on the road.

Head coach Dave Canales hinted Monday that he's inclined to give Dowdle the bulk of the Panthers' carries moving forward rather than splitting the work evenly between Dowdle and Chuba Hubbard, Steve Reed of the Associated Press reports. "Chuba has meant a lot to this organization and certainly to the identity that we want to build and we wanted to give him the opportunity to go out there and to continue to impact our team in a positive way," Canales said. "But we cannot ignore the fact that Rico has been ex

While Hubbard was sidelined with a calf injury in Weeks 5 and 6, Dowdle took full advantage of his opportunity to serve as Carolina's lead back, amassing 473 yards from scrimmage and two touchdowns in wins over the Dolphins and Cowboys. In the two games since he returned from the injury, Hubbard stepped back in as the Panthers' starter but has alternated series with Dowdle. During that two-game stretch, Dowdle has handily outperformed Hubbard, averaging 5.3 yards on 25 carries compared to Hubbard's 2.5-yard average on 26 carries. Though Hubbard may be on the field for the first snap of this coming Sunday's game in Green Bay, Canales' comments point to the touches out of the Carolina backfield tilting more dramatically into Dowdle's favor. Assuming that's the case, fantasy managers would be able to deploy Dowdle will more confidence in Week 9, after the timeshare arrangement in the previous two games made it more difficult to project him taking on a larger workload.

Dowdle rushed eight times for 54 yards and wasn't targeted in the Panthers' 40-9 loss to the Bills on Sunday.

Dowdle logged four fewer carries than backfield mate Chuba Hubbard, but he outgained the latter by 20 rushing yards. In the two games since Hubbard's return from a calf injury, Dowdle has 123 rushing yards on 25 carries to his teammate's 26-65-1 line on the ground in the same span, but the two are likely to continue working in a close workload split during a Week 9 road tilt against the Packers next Sunday afternoon.

Dowdle rushed the ball 17 times for 79 yards in Sunday's 13-6 win over the Jets. He added one reception on two targets for 17 yards.

Chuba Hubbard returned after a two-game absence and drew the start over Dowdle. The duo then alternated possessions, with Dowdle turning in the far more efficient performance, out-gaining Hubbard 96-48. Dowdle has certainly gained a more significant role in the Carolina offense with his strong showings across the last three weeks, though it doesn't appear that the team is prepared to turn the backfield over to him fully at this point.

Dowdle will compete with Chuba Hubbard for backfield touches Sunday against the Jets, and Panthers coach Dave Canales said Sunday the team has made a decision internally regarding which running back will get the majority of the carries, Steve Reed of The Associated Press reports.

Hubbard missed the previous two games due to a calf injury but has been cleared to return Sunday. During Hubbard's absence, Dowdle became one of a handful of running backs in NFL history to exceed 230 scrimmage yards and score a touchdown in consecutive games. Dowdle's success during Hubbard's absence suggests the former may be a slight favorite to retain the lead role, but the Panthers don't plan to divulge that information prior to Sunday's game.

Panthers coach Dave Canales didn't answer Wednesday when reporters asked him if Dowdle will start Sunday's game against the Jets, Steve Reed of the Associated Press reports.

Chuba Hubbard (calf) returned to practice Wednesday as a limited participant, after Dowdle ran for 389 yards over the past two weeks. Hubbard was excellent last season and didn't do anything this September to warrant a benching, but the massive extent of Dowdle's recent production nonetheless creates questions about what the Carolina backfield will look like moving forward. The split for Week 7 won't necessarily be the split for the rest of the season, of course, and there may be room for multiple RBs to put up solid numbers against a subpar Jets defense.

Dowdle rushed 30 times for 183 yards and brought in four of five targets for 56 yards and a touchdown in the Panthers' 30-27 win over the Cowboys on Sunday. He also fumbled once but recovered.

One week after delivering a career-best 206-yard effort against the Dolphins, Dowdle was blessed with a second straight matchup against a porous defense. In Week 6, that unit happened to be comprised of plenty of his former Cowboys teammates, and Dowdle parlayed the additional incentive into another spectacular afternoon. While he came just short of hitting the 200-yard mark on the ground for the second straight contest, the surging veteran was able to shine as a pass catcher while compiling a team-high receiving yardage total and scoring his first receiving TD of the season on a 36-yard grab to close out the opening possession of the second half. Given Dowdle's production over the last two games, it appears highly unlikely Chuba Hubbard (calf) will be able to reclaim anything close to the snap share he previously enjoyed as the No. 1 back, and the latter doesn't appear likely to be available for a Week 7 road matchup against the Jets next Sunday anyhow.

Dowdle will start Sunday's game against the Cowboys, as David Newton of ESPN.com reports that Chuba Hubbard (calf) has been ruled out.

Dowdle was outstanding in Hubbard's absence against the Dolphins in Week 5, as the former rushed for a career-high 206 yards in a 27-24 Panthers win. Dowdle should continue to hold a near-monopoly on Carolina's backfield touches against his former team, the Cowboys, with Trevor Etienne and DeeJay Dallas on hand to provide depth.

Dowdle rushed 23 times for 206 yards and a touchdown and brought in three of four targets for 28 yards in the Panthers' 27-24 win over the Dolphins on Sunday.

Stepping in to the lead-back role in place of Chuba Hubbard (calf) Dowdle exceeded all expectations in his first opportunity to helm the ground attack in Carolina. Dowdle repeatedly knifed the Dolphins' front seven for big gains, including 43- and 53-yard scampers. Dowdle's otherworldly performance raises an intriguing dilemma for head coach Dave Canales whenever Hubbard is healthy again, but the Panthers can certainly afford to give the latter time to fully heal, especially with Dowdle next getting a crack at the inconsistent defense of his former Cowboys squad in a Week 6 home matchup.

Coach Dave Canales said Dowdle will start Sunday against the Dolphins with fellow RB Chuba Hubbard (calf) ruled out for the contest, David Newton of ESPN.com reports.

Hubbard wasn't able to practice this week due to a lingering calf injury, and while he'll be inactive this weekend, Canales labeled him "day-to-day," meaning Dowdle's time as the Panthers' No. 1 backfield option may be contained to one game. In reserve role this season, Dowdle has averaged 3.0 yards on his 28 carries, hauled in five of six targets for 20 yards and scored a rushing touchdown in four games. Having said that, he racked up 1,079 rushing yards last year as the Cowboys' primary RB, so he can handle a large workload if needed. Trevor Etienne and DeeJay Dallas will be on hand for any reps that don't go to Dowdle.

Dowdle is expected to serve as the Panthers' starting running back for Sunday's game against the Dolphins with Chuba Hubbard (calf) likely to be sidelined for the Week 5 contest, David Newton of ESPN.com reports.

Hubbard didn't take part in practices Wednesday and Thursday, and unless he takes a dramatic step forward in his activity Friday, he could be ruled out for Sunday's contest heading into the weekend. After signing a one-year, $2.75 million deal with Carolina in the offseason, Dowdle has served as Hubbard's top backup through the first four games, carrying 28 times for 83 yards (3.0 YPC) and a touchdown to go with five catches for 20 yards on six targets. Despite his poor efficiency so far with Carolina, Dowdle is coming off a 1,079-yard rushing season with Dallas and is likely to rank as the Panthers' preferred option out of the backfield ahead of fourth-round rookie Trevor Etienne, who has primarily served as a return specialist through the first four weeks and didn't see his first extended action on offense until garbage time of the Panthers' 42-13 loss to the Patriots last Sunday.

Dowdle rushed nine times for 32 yards and caught his only target for minus-2 yards in Sunday's 42-13 loss to the Patriots.

The first-year Panther has now received double-digit touches in each of his last two games. Although Sunday's loss was a blowout, seven of Dowdle's 10 touches came in the first half while the game was still competitive, suggesting he's carved out a valuable role in Carolina's offense. However, he still worked behind Chuba Hubbard, who tallied 69 yards on 13 touches over 34 offensive snaps. Dowdle was also inefficient with the ball in his hands Sunday, averaging just 3.0 yards per touch. He's expected to continue serving as the Panthers' top reserve running back ahead of a Week 5 matchup against the Dolphins.

Dowdle recorded 10 rushes for 30 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's 30-0 win over the Falcons. He added one reception on one target for eight yards as well as one kick return for 21 yards.

The Panthers enjoyed a blowout win, though that doesn't appear to be the only reason for Dowdle's increased usage. He was the exclusive running back on a possession that began late in the fourth quarter, which accounted for half of his carries and his touchdown, but Chuba Hubbard returned to the game on the following possession. Hubbard is still the clear lead back in Carolina, but Dowdle has seen his touch total increase every week of the season.

Dowdle rushed six times for nine yards and caught his only target for 10 yards during Sunday's 27-22 loss to the Cardinals.

Despite Dowdle seeing a larger role in the Panthers' offense when on the field in Week 2, he played just 29-percent of the team's offensive snaps. The 27-year-old has also struggled with efficiency through his first two games in Carolina, averaging only 2.9 yards per touch. Meanwhile, backfield mate Chuba Hubbard recorded 77 total yards and a touchdown on 15 touches in Sunday's loss, likely further solidifying Dowdle's role as Carolina's top reserve running back heading into a Week 3 matchup against the Falcons.

Dowdle rushed three times for 12 yards and caught two of three targets for four yards during Sunday's 26-10 loss to the Jaguars.

The first-year Panther underwhelmed in his regular-season debut, playing just 22 of the team's 64 offensive snaps. Dowdle, who rushed for 1,079 yards with the Cowboys last season, appears firmly behind Chuba Hubbard in Carolina's backfield. Hubbard's 43 offensive snaps lead to 19 touches for 89 total yards and one touchdown. However, the game script favored the pass, which likely limited Dowdle's opportunities, as the Panthers trailed by as many as 20 points in the fourth quarter of Sunday's loss. Dowdle is expected to serve as the Panthers' top backup running back again in Week 2 against the Cardinals.

Dowdle rushed twice for two yards and secured his only target for 15 yards in the Panthers' 20-3 preseason loss to the Texans on Saturday afternoon.

The offseason addition entered the game after Chuba Hubbard, with Dowdle logging his first touch on the first third down of the Panthers' third drive of the afternoon. Dowdle recorded his 15-yard catch on that play and then netted his two rushing yards over the next two snaps to wrap up his afternoon. A 1,000-yard rusher in 2024 with the Cowboys, Dowdle appears slotted for a solid but still complementary role alongside No. 1 back Chubba Hubbard going into the 2025 regular season.

Dowdle gained seven rushing yards on three carries and caught his only target for 20 yards in Friday's 30-10 preseason loss to the Browns.

The former Cowboy made his debut in a Panthers' uniform after signing a one-year contract in March, and Dowdle flashed his three-down skill set by connecting with Andy Dalton on a big gain early in the second quarter. As expected, Dowdle appears to be behind incumbent starter Chuba Hubbard on the depth chart, but with both players having gained over 1,000 rushing yards in 2024 for their respective teams and Dowdle posting better numbers as a receiver, he figures to still have a substantial role in Carolina's offense.

Dowdle agreed to a one-year, $3 million contract with the Panthers on Wednesday, Mike Kaye of The Charlotte Observer reports.

Dowdle emerged as the Cowboys' top running back last season and rushed for a career-high 1,079 yards on 235 carries (4.6 YPC) with two touchdowns while adding 249 yards on 39 catches and three touchdowns. In Carolina, he'll be part of a backfield duo along with Chuba Hubbard (calf/knee), who had his own breakout last season with a career-best 1,195 rushing yards on 250 carries and 10 touchdowns. Dowdle's fantasy stock may take a hit as a result of being part of a shared backfield, but the signing gives the up-and-coming Panthers a potentially formidable running back 1-2 punch. Jonathon Brooks, who the team selected in the second round of the 2024 NFL Draft, is expected to miss most of next season while recovering from his second torn ACL.

Cowboys COO Stephen Jones said Monday that the team hopes to re-sign Dowdle, David Moore of The Dallas Morning News reports.

Dowdle is scheduled for free agency at the beginning of the league year, with Dallas being the only team that can attempt to sign him before then. His breakout in 2024 figures to lead to a contract with considerable guarantees this offseason, but it's hard to say if teams will view Dowdle as a viable starter or more of a high-end backup. Having spent most of his pro career at the back of the Cowboys' roster or on their practice squad, Dowdle is unlikely to give a hometown discount, as this may be his only shot at a sizable contract. He'll turn 27 in June.

Dowdle rushed 22 times for 72 yards and a touchdown while catching two of three targets for 12 yards in Sunday's 23-19 loss to the Commanders.

Dowdle's two-yard rushing touchdown with 7:02 remaining in the fourth quarter gave the Cowboys a 19-16 lead, but the Commanders responded with a game-winning touchdown in the final seconds. The pending unrestricted free agent bolstered his value with a strong stretch run, as Dowdle compiled 591 rushing yards and two touchdowns over the last six games. Overall, Dowdle recorded 235 carries for 1,079 yards and two touchdowns while catching 39 of 49 targets for 249 yards and three touchdowns in this breakout season. If the Cowboys bring Dowdle back, they will likely look to bolster their backfield further via the draft or free agency.

Dowdle rushed 23 times for 104 yards and brought in his only target for four yards in the Cowboys' 41-7 loss to the Eagles on Sunday. He also lost a fumble.

Dowdle was able to bounce back from a difficult night against the Buccaneers' stingy run defense in Week 16, eclipsing the 100-yard mark for the fourth time in the last five games. The productive day also pushed Dowdle over the 1,000-yard threshold for the season, a particularly noteworthy accomplishment considering he didn't have a consistent grasp of the lead-back role over the first half of the season. Dowdle's fourth-quarter fumble at Eagles' 10-yard line was costly in terms of both costing the Cowboys points and leading to an eventual Philadelphia TD, but the fourth-year pro should have a good chance of finishing the season in productive fashion against the Commanders in Week 18.

Dowdle rushed the ball 13 times for 23 yards in Sunday's 26-24 win over Tampa Bay. He added three receptions on three targets for 28 yards.

Dowdle had emerged as an efficient rusher with elevated volume in recent weeks, but he never got going on the ground in Sunday's win. His longest gain as a rusher went for just six yards while 10 of his attempts went for two yards or fewer. Dowdle managed to redeem himself a bit as a pass catcher by posting his most receiving yards since Week 9. Things won't get easier for him heading into a Week 17 matchup against the Eagles, but he should remain a centerpiece of the Cowboys' offense.

Dowdle rushed the ball 25 times for 149 yards in Sunday's 30-14 win over the Panthers. He was not targeted.

Dowdle was coming off a career-best 131 rushing-yard performance, but he outpaced that mark in Sunday's blowout win. He had a solid first half but was relied upon to burn clock in the final two quarters, when he tallied 14 attempts for 91 yards. The only downside to Dowdle's performance was that he couldn't find the end zone, but he's suddenly one of the league's most productive backs, having topped 100 yards on the ground in three straight contests.

Dowdle rushed 18 times for 131 yards and brought in one of two targets for 10 yards in the Cowboys' 27-20 loss to the Bengals on Monday night.

Dowdle consistently gashed the Bengals' lackluster run defense throughout the night, recording a game-long 27-yard run and finishing with a career-high rushing yardage total in the process. The 26-year-old now has back-to-back 100-yard performances and no fewer than 86 rushing yards in three straight games heading into a highly favorable Week 15 road matchup against the Panthers.

Dowdle rushed the ball 22 times for 112 yards and a touchdown in Thursday's 27-20 win over the Giants. He added three receptions on three targets for 11 yards

Dowdle found plenty of running room with a season-high 22 carries and ripped off long gains of 22, 18, 17 and 13 yards. That led to the first 100-yard rushing game of his career and also marked the first time a Cowboys running back has topped the century mark since Week 3 of the 2023 campaign, per Saad Yousuf of The Athletic. Dowdle added to his impressive performance with a four-yard touchdown scamper late in the fourth quarter to ice the game for the Cowboys.

Dowdle rushed 19 times for 86 yards and brought in all three targets for 12 yards in the Cowboys' 34-26 win over the Commanders on Sunday. He also lost a fumble.

Dowdle operated as the unquestioned lead back, as backfield mate Ezekiel Elliott logged only three carries. The former fittingly parlayed his second-highest carry total of the season into his second-highest rushing yardage tally, and he also extended his streak of multi-catch efforts to six games. Dowdle heads into a favorable Thanksgiving Day home matchup against the Giants with a secure grip on the top job in Dallas' ground attack.

Dowdle rushed 10 times for 28 yards while catching two of five targets for six yards in Monday's 34-10 win over Houston.

Dowdle got his head coach's vote of confidence prior to Monday's kickoff, and Mike McCarthy's words rang true after the tailback led Dallas in carries. That's where the good news ended, as the 26-year-old struggled to generate any room to operate in a blowout loss. Unlike star teammate CeeDee Lamb, Dowdle's value may have taken a significant hit by Dak Prescott's (hamstring) season-ending injury. With little threat of a passing attack, opposing defenses can stack the box against Dowdle and Co. like the Texans successfully accomplished Monday. Dowdle should still carry deep-league value, but those in standard formats may have to make difficult decisions as the fantasy playoffs inch closer.

Coach Mike McCarthy called Dowdle the Cowboys' "lead back" Thursday, Clarence E. Hill Jr. of the Fort Worth Star-Telegram reports.

Dallas has operated with a committee approach to its backfield so far this season but ranks 31st in rushing yards per game (83.7). Dowdle has been by far the most productive option, recording 4.5 YPC versus Ezekiel Elliott's 3.7, Dalvin Cook's 2.5, Deuce Vaughn's 2.9 and Hunter Luepke's 3.2. In eight appearances, Dowdle has averaged 13.4 touches per game, a number that should increase following McCarthy's comments.

Dowdle carried the ball 12 times for 53 yards while catching all three of his targets for as many yards in Sunday's 34-6 loss to Philadelphia.

Dowdle was off to a good start on the ground before the score got out of hand and forced the team to abandon the run in the second half. Ezekiel Elliott (suspension) returned following a one-game absence, but he produced just 22 yards on six carries while losing a fumble. Dowdle should continue to serve as the Cowboys' top RB despite the team being in disarray at the QB position heading into next Monday's tilt against Houston.

Dowdle carried the ball 12 times for 75 yards and caught five of six targets for 32 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's 27-21 loss to the Falcons.

The running back produced more than 100 combined yards for the second time in his last three games, and his three-yard TD catch from Dak Prescott (hamstring) in the second quarter was Dowdle's third touchdown reception in his last four contests. He's still looking for his first rushing score of the season, but Dowdle continues to solidify his hold on the starting job in the Cowboys' backfield. Prescott is headed for an MRI on Monday, and if he ends up missing a Week 10 clash with the Eagles, Dallas could lean more heavily on Dowdle with Cooper Rush under center instead.

Dowdle (illness) isn't listed on the Cowboys' first Week 9 practice report Wednesday, Todd Archer of ESPN.com reports.

Prior to this past Sunday's game at San Francisco, Dowdle was reported to have an illness that left him questionable to suit up. He was included among Dallas' inactives, but the combination of Ezekiel Elliott, Dalvin Cook and Hunter Luepke didn't fare well in his stead, combining for 17 carries for 46 yards (2.7 per) and two catches (on two targets) for 14 yards. Dowdle told Clarence E. Hill Jr. of the Fort Worth Star-Telegram that he had a fever of 102.5 degrees F and chills Sunday, but his lack of listing Wednesday indicates he's past the ailment and is in line to retain his No. 1 role out of the Cowboys backfield Week 9 in Atlanta.

Dowdle (illness) is listed as inactive Sunday at San Francisco.

As Dowdle arrived at Levi's Stadium, he was diagnosed with an illness and deemed questionable to suit up Week 8. With Dowdle's lack of availability confirmed Sunday, the Cowboys backfield will be composed of Ezekiel Elliott, Dalvin Cook and Deuce Vaughn. Elliott seems like the best bet to be the team's leading runner, but Cook and Vaughn will be on hand for any reps that linger.

Dowdle (illness) isn't expected to play Sunday night against the 49ers, Tom Pelissero of NFL Network reports.

Official confirmation of Dowdle's absence will come when the Cowboys release their inactive list, but any fantasy managers relying on Dowdle can start lining up a replacement. In Dowdle's absence, Ezekiel Elliott, Deuce Vaughn and Dalvin Cook -- who was elevated from the practice squad Saturday -- will comprise Dallas' backfield.

Dowdle has an illness and now is considered questionable for Sunday's game at San Francisco.

Dowdle led the Cowboys backfield during the first six contests of the season, averaging 12.5 touches for 62.8 yards from scrimmage per game while scoring two TDs through the air. With Dowdle's status now up in the air for Week 8, Ezekiel Elliott, Dalvin Cook and Deuce Vaughn are the other running backs on the team's roster.

Dowdle recorded five rushes for 25 yards in Sunday's 47-9 loss to the Lions. He added five receptions on six targets for 30 yards.

After a breakout game in Week 5, Dowdle was surprisingly thrust back into a split backfield with Ezekiel Elliott. Dowdle managed to out-touch Elliott thanks to his work as a pass catcher and also remained the far more efficient back. While their skill profiles suggest that Dowdle should serve as the clear leader of the backfield moving forward, the Cowboys have been hesitant to fully rely on him heading into their Week 7 bye.

Dowdle rushed 20 times for 87 yards while catching both of his targets for 27 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's 20-17 win over the Steelers.

Dowdle went over the century mark in yards from scrimmage while catching his second touchdown in as many weeks on Sunday Night Football. The 26-year-old was quietly leading a poor Dallas rushing attack in touches leading up to his breakout Sunday, so savvy fantasy managers may have already snagged him off the wire. If not, make sure to put in a claim for Dowdle ahead of next Sunday's tilt against the Lions, as it has become apparent who the starting running back for the Cowboys is this season.

Dowdle rushed 11 times for 46 yards and brought in his only target for a 15-yard touchdown in the Cowboys' 20-15 win over the Giants on Thursday night.

Dowdle led the Cowboys in rush attempts and rushing yards, outpacing Ezekiel Elliott by six carries and 27 yards on the night. Dowdle also made good use of his one pass-catching opportunity via his 15-yard scoring reception late in the first quarter, his first touchdown of any kind since Week 14 of last season. Dowdle's rushing totals Thursday were also season highs, giving him some momentum heading into a tough Week 5 road matchup against the Steelers on Sunday, Oct. 6.

Dowdle carried the ball eight times for 32 yards in Sunday's 28-25 loss to the Ravens. He added three catches on five targets for 24 yards.

Dowdle's overall line is unremarkable, but the Cowboys attempted only 16 rushes in the game. Ezekiel Elliott saw just three of those attempts, and Dowdle was the more efficient runner of the duo. He also benefitted from his ability as a pass catcher, and he now has seven receptions for 53 yards across the last two games combined. While it didn't turn into much production Sunday, Dowdle looks to be improving his role in the Dallas backfield.

Dowdle carried the ball seven times for 30 yards and caught four of five targets for 29 yards in Sunday's 44-19 loss to the Saints.

The Cowboys used a backfield committee once again, but Dowdle got the start and saw 11 touches to Ezekiel Elliott's eight, and out-gained the veteran 59 scrimmage yards to 32. Neither back has separated himself from the other so far, making both unappealing fantasy options heading into a Week 3 tilt against the Ravens.

Dowdle carried the ball eight times for 26 yards in Sunday's 33-17 win over the Browns. He added one reception for six yards.

Ezekiel Elliott was on the field first for Dallas, though he way gave way to Dowdle for the second possession, and the duo alternated for the rest of the game. Dowdle's statistical output was poor, though he did have the team's only double-digit gain on the ground from a running back on the day. The Cowboys will presumably be willing to shift the touch allocation to the more effective back at some point in the campaign, and Elliott appears to have the leg up after Week 1.

Dowdle is expected to have a "pretty even split" of the reps out of the backfield with Ezekiel Elliott in Sunday's season opener in Cleveland, Tom Pelissero of NFL Network reports.

Though the Cowboys could end up riding the hotter hand of the two backs as the game goes along, both Dowdle and Elliott look set to be part of the team's game plan to begin the contest. Pelissero adds that practice-squad member Dalvin Cook could factor into Dallas' backfield mix as soon as Week 2 against the Saints, but the Cowboys chose not to elevate Cook for Week 1, leaving Deuce Vaughn as the No. 3 option behind Dowdle and Elliott. With the threat of a timeshare with Elliott on the table for at least Week 1, Dowdle might not make for an especially enticing option in fantasy lineups outside of deeper leagues.

Cowboys coach Mike McCarthy said Thursday that Dowdle will get less work on special teams this season due to an expected increase in his workload on offense, Calvin Watkins of The Dallas Morning News reports.

The South Carolina product saw a career-high 106 touches over 16 regular-season games last season, leading to 505 scrimmage yards and four total touchdowns. but those numbers figure to spike significantly in 2024. It's still unclear how the backfield workload will be divided between Dowdle, Ezekiel Elliott and recent free-agent signing Dalvin Cook, who will begin the season on the practice squad, but it wouldn't be a surprise if Dowdle handled at least a plurality of the touches out of the gate given his versatility and three-down skill set.

Dowdle carried the ball three times for 14 yards in Sunday's 13-12 preseason loss to the Rams.

Ezekiel Elliott got the day off completely, while Dowdle saw only a handful of snaps on the Cowboys' opening drive before ceding the backfield to Malik Davis and other depth RBs. Dowdle and Elliott are expected to split the bulk of the touches at running back for Dallas this season, but the position is more likely to become a committee than one or the other emerging as a clear starter.

Dowdle is on track for a roster spot and could even be considered the favorite to lead Dallas in rushing this year, according to Jon Machota of The Athletic.

Dowdle was the team's No. 2 RB last year but didn't get much work outside of garbage time with Tony Pollard staying healthy all season. Pollard is gone, replaced by the man he once replaced, Ezekiel Elliott, who reportedly has taken fewer carries than Dowdle with the first-team offense this summer. Machota says Dowdle "has to be the favorite" to lead Dallas in rushing, but fantasy managers should also consider the possibility that Elliott is getting fewer reps because he already has so much experience, including three seasons as the starting RB (2020-22) under current Cowboys head coach Mike McCarthy.

The Cowboys are signing Ezekiel Elliott to join Dowdle in a backfield that otherwise lacks experienced players and early draft picks, ESPN.com's Todd Archer reports.

The Zeke reunion has been in the works for weeks, but most people still expected the Cowboys to add at least one running back during the 2024 NFL Draft. They ultimately didn't select one, leaving Royce Freeman, Malik Davis, Snoop Conner and 2023 sixth-round pick Deuce Vaughn as the competition behind Elliott and Dowdle. An undrafted free agent or two likely will be added to that mix, but it should still be a favorable situation for Elliott and Dowdle to earn playing time.

Dowdle is set to re-sign with the Cowboys, Jon Machota of The Athletic reports.

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.

Dowdle finished the regular season with 361 rushing yards and two touchdowns on 89 carries while catching 17 of 22 targets for 144 yards and two more TDs over 16 games.

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 rushing 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 latter departs it's unlikely Dallas would simply hand Dowdle the starting role in 2024. A timeshare or committee role might be the best he can hope for.

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.

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 scrimmage yards 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 scrimmage yards and four total touchdowns (two rushing, two receiving) on 106 touches, and Dowdle should remain involved in the game plan when Dallas faces Green Bay next Sunday in the wild-card round.

Dowdle (ankle) practiced in full Thursday, Jon Machota of The Athletic reports.

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.

Dowdle (ankle) was a limited participant in Wednesday's practice, Todd Archer of ESPN.com reports.

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 behind Pollard.

Dowdle (ankle) has been ruled out for Saturday's game against the Lions, Jon Machota of The Athletic reports.

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 reserve options behind top RB Tony Pollard.

Dowdle (ankle) didn't practice Wednesday, Ralph Vacchiano of Fox Sports reports.

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.

Dowdle (ankle) was limited in Tuesday's practice, Jon Machota of The Athletic reports.

Dowdle has been nursing this ankle injury for over a month but continues to play through it. In last Sunday's Week 16 loss to the Dolphins, Dowdle's 11 snaps were his fewest since Week 6. He's carried the ball five times for just eight yards over the last two games, losses to Buffalo and Miami.

Dowdle (ankle) doesn't have an injury designation for Sunday's game against the Dolphins, Bobby Belt of 105.3 The Fan Dallas reports.

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.

Dowdle (ankle) was limited at Thursday's practice, Jon Machota of The Athletic reports.

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 will unveil whether or not Dowdle enters the weekend with a designation for Sunday's visit to the Dolphins.

Dowdle (ankle) practiced in a limited fashion Wednesday, Jon Machota of The Athletic reports.

As he has been for the Cowboys' previous five games, Dowdle again is tending to an ankle injury. It hasn't stopped him from playing a regular, albeit small, role in the offense, as evidenced by 31 carries and seven catches (on eight targets) for 132 yards from scrimmage and two total touchdowns during that stretch. Even if he has practice restrictions through Friday, there's a decent chance Dowdle will enter the weekend without a designation for Sunday's contest at Miami.

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.

The Cowboys' offense sputtered once again on the road, and Dowdle's 12 scrimmage yards 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 in Week 16 against the Dolphins.

Dowdle (ankle) doesn't have an injury designation ahead of Sunday's game against the Bills, Michael Gehlken of The Dallas Morning News reports.

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.

Dowdle (ankle) was a limited practice participant Thursday, Jon Machota of The Athletic reports.

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.

Dowdle (ankle) was listed as limited on Wednesday's practice report, Todd Archer of ESPN.com reports.

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 TD while working behind starting RB Tony Pollard. Assuming he gets through Week 15 unscathed, Dowdle should play a similar role Sunday at Buffalo.

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.

The running back punched in a one-yard TD in the second quarter, although it took a review to confirm the ball has 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 scrimmage yards across 13 games, and Sunday's game was the third time in the last five contests he'd seen double-digit touch volume. Dowdle will carry some deeper-league fantasy appeal into a Week 15 meeting with the Bills.

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.

Dowdle appeared on Dallas injury reports for each of the past three weeks due to the 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.

Dowdle (ankle) practiced on a limited basis Thursday, Jon Machota of The Athletic reports.

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.

Dowdle (ankle) was limited at practice Wednesday, Michael Gehlken of The Dallas Morning News reports.

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. Over the last three games, he's mustered just 3.1 yards on his 16 carries and hauled in all four targets for 19 yards and a touchdown. A similar role will be in store for Dowdle as long as the Cowboys' lead runner Tony Pollard is healthy and assuming the former is able to suit up Sunday night against the Eagles.

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.

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 do battle against a virtually impenetrable Eagles run defense in a Week 14 Sunday night home showdown on Dec. 10.

Dowdle (ankle) doesn't have a designation for Thursday's game against the Seahawks, Jon Machota of The Athletic reports.

For a second consecutive week, Dowdle is tending to an ankle injury, only this time he got in for more on-field work, as evidenced by two limited listings and Wednesday's full practice. He thus is 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 TDs in five games for Dowdle since the team's Week 7 bye.

Dowdle (ankle) was listed as a limited participant in Tuesday's practice, Jon Machota of The Athletic reports.

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.

Dowdle (ankle) was a limited participant at practice Monday, Jon Machota of The Athletic reports.

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.

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.

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.

Dowdle (ankle) is listed as active Thursday against the Commanders, Todd Archer of ESPN.com reports.

Dowdle followed up DNPs on the Cowboys' first two Week 12 practice reports due to an ankle injury, but a limited listing Wednesday 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.

Dowdle (ankle) is expected to play Thursday against the Commanders, Ian Rappaport of NFL Network reports.

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 ET kickoff.

Dowdle (ankle) is officially listed as questionable for Thursday's game against the Commanders.

Dowdle put forth a limited practice Wednesday for his first practice participation of the week. He cropped up on the injury report with an ankle injury prior to this past Sunday's 33-10 win over the Panthers, but Dowdle managed to play through the injury and logged 10 touches. If he's able to suit up once again Thursday, Dowdle should continue to operate as the top backup to Tony Pollard.

Dowdle (ankle) was listed as a non-participant on Tuesday's injury report, Jon Machota of The Athletic reports.

After not holding practice Monday, the Cowboys got back on the field Tuesday, but Dowdle remained absent from drills. He thus will have just one more chance to put himself in a position to be available to Dallas' backfield for Thursday's game against the Commanders. If Dowdle is limited or out Week 12, Deuce Vaughn, Hunter Luepke and potentially practice-squad member Malik Davis would be the candidates for RB touches behind starter Tony Pollard.

Dowdle (ankle) was listed as a non-participant on Monday's estimated practice report, Todd Archer of ESPN.com reports.

Dowdle was added to the Week 11 injury report on 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.

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.

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 results against Carolina weren'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.

Dowdle (ankle) is officially active for Sunday's game at Carolina, Michael Gehlken of The Dallas Morning News reports.

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.

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.

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 also logging a career-high 79 rushing yards on 12 carries.

Dowdle carried the ball 12 times for 79 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's 49-17 win over the Giants.

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 only managed 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 seven carries.

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.

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.

Dowdle rushed three times for 12 yards in Monday's 20-17 win over the Chargers.

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 the Cowboys' Week 7 bye.

Dowdle (hip) was upgraded to a full participant in Thursday's practice, Calvin Watkins of The Dallas Morning News reports.

Dowdle was listed as DNP Wednesday, which sounds like it was more precautionary than anything else. He should be good to go for Sunday night against the 49ers. Dowdle has carried 20 times for 80 scoreless yards behind Tony Pollard this season.

Dowdle (hip) will not practice Wednesday, according to head coach Mike McCarthy, Michael Gehlken of The Dallas Morning News reports.

Dowdle suffered a hip contusion in Sunday's win over the Patriots and will spend the day rehabbing the injury instead of being on the practice field. The South Carolina product will likely need to get back on the field Thursday, or Friday at the latest, to have a chance to suit up Sunday against the 49ers. If he is unable to, then Deuce Vaughn would be in line to work as the direct backup to Tony Pollard.

Dowdle has been diagnosed with a hip contusion following an MRI on Monday, Michael Gehlken of The Dallas Morning News reports.

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 next Sunday's matchup against San Francisco remains unclear, but further clarity should surface when Dallas has to release its first injury report of Week 5 prep, which will drop Wednesday.

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.

Dowdle missed the entire 2021 season due to a fracture in the same hip. if Dowdle's 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.

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.

Dowdle will not retort 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.

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.

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.

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.

Tony Pollard saw 32 touches as the Cowboys' lead back and produced 109 scrimmage yards, 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 in 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 viable play in most formats.

Dowdle carried the ball six times for 24 yards in Sunday's 40-0 win over the Giants.

The Cowboys' defense and special teams unit 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. He 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.

Dowdle is a part of the Cowboys' initial 53-man roster following roster cuts Tuesday, Jon Machota of The Athletic reports.

Behind Tony Pollard, the situation in Dallas' backfield has crystallized somewhat, with Dowdle and rookies Deuce Vaughn and Hunter Luepke making the team over Malik Davis. With Ronald Jones suspended for the first two games of the campaign, Dowdle thus 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.

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.

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, and he should have a final chance to make a case for himself in next Saturday night's home preseason finale against the Raiders.

Dowdle carried the ball six times for 21 yards and caught all three of his targets for 33 yards in Saturday's preseason loss to the Jaguars.

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 scrimmage yards on eight touches. Unfortunately, Dowdle also committed a crucial fumble just outside Jacksonville's red 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 stay in the mix.

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.

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 Dowdle to push Malik Davis for the No. 2 spot on the depth chart.

The Cowboys are re-signing Dowdle on Tuesday, Calvin Watkins of The Dallas Morning News reports.

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.

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.

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.

Dallas placed Dowdle (ankle) on its injured reserve list Saturday.

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.

Dowdle (ankle) has been ruled out for Sunday's matchup against the Eagles, Michael Gehlken of The Dallas Morning News reports.

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.

Dowdle (ankle) was unable to practice Thursday, Michael Gehlken of The Dallas Morning News reports.

Dowdle missed a second consecutive practice Thursday due to an ankle injury and his status for Sunday night is up in the air. Expect rookie running back Malik Davis to make his NFL debut against the Eagles if Dowdle can't suit up.

Dowdle has a spot on the Cowboys' initial 53-man roster, Todd Archer of ESPN.com reports.

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.

Dowdle (illness) rushed nine times for 36 yards in the Cowboys' 17-7 preseason loss to the Broncos on Saturday night.

Dowdle was reasonably productive with his opportunity, pacing the Cowboys in carries in the process. The 24-year-old and undrafted rookie Malik Davis, his primary competitor for the No. 3 running back job, were similarly productive, so their job battle continues in next Saturday night's road exhibition matchup against the Chargers.

Dowdle will miss the remainder of the week after testing positive for COVID on Thursday, Michael Gehlken of The Dallas Morning News reports.

Dowdle is going through a rough stretch, missing the 2021 season with a hip fracture, followed by having to get his knee scoped in May, which kept him out for OTAs. Now he will have to stay away from the team for a few days until he no longer tests positive for COVID. 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 depth chart, firmly behind Ezekiel Elliott and Tony Pollard.

Dowdle (knee) was an active participant at Thursday's training camp session, Michael Gehlken of The Dallas Morning News reports.

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.

Dowdle (knee) is missing OTAs due to a recent knee scope, Michael Gehlken of The Dallas Morning News reports.

Dowdle suffered a hip fracture that landed him on IR in August of 2021, which forced him to miss the entire season. Although he is now recovered from that injury, Dowdle apparently had a knee issue that needed to be scoped, which will keep him on the sidelines for now. However, he's fully expected to be ready to participate for training camp.

Dowdle was placed on IR due to a hip injury Wednesday, Michael Gehlken of The Dallas Morning News reports.

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.

The Cowboys placed Dowdle (undisclosed) on injured reserve Wednesday, Michael Gehlken of The Dallas Morning News reports.

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.

Dowdle gained 24 rushing yards on seven carries over 15 games in 2020.

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.

Dowdle carried the ball four times for 11 yards and returned three kickoffs for 88 yards in Sunday's win over the 49ers.

With Ezekiel Elliott (calf) sidelined, Tony Pollard moved into the lead role in the backfield and erupted for 132 scrimmage yards 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 in Week 16, Pollard's performance may earn him a bigger workload, potentially opening the door for Dowdle to become the Cowboys' primary kickoff returner to close out the year.

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.

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.

Dowdle would likely be activated from the Cowboys' practice squad if Ezekiel Elliott is inactive as expected, Michael Gehlken of The Dallas Morning News reports.

Dowdle saw a little bit of action in the Arizona Monday night debacle, 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.