Rico Dowdle’s impressive performance in his inaugural season as the lead running back for the Dallas Cowboys is creating intriguing prospects for the team’s offseason strategy.
The fifth-year veteran had not achieved any 100-yard games prior to this season, but recently broke a decade-long streak by becoming the first undrafted running back to register three consecutive 100-yard games, following the Cowboys’ 30-14 win over the Carolina Panthers.
As the Cowboys navigate the remaining three games of the season with bleak playoff hopes, Dowdle prepares to showcase his highlight reel as he approaches free agency. The Cowboys, currently at 6-8, will face the NFC South-leading Tampa Bay Buccaneers (8-6) on Sunday night.
The 26-year-old running back has shattered his personal best in the last three games, culminating in a standout performance that yielded 149 yards against the Panthers. Dowdle’s only rushing touchdown this season came during his first 100-yard game in the Thanksgiving win against the New York Giants, where he added three touchdowns through receptions as well.
“Touchdowns are the only thing I am missing right now, but this is definitely a great time right now considering these past three weeks,” Dowdle noted, having amassed 880 rushing yards. “Those guys have been opening it up, and it’s been three good weeks.”
Dowdle referred to the offensive linemen who have adjusted to the absence of seven-time All-Pro right guard Zack Martin, who underwent season-ending ankle surgery. After stepping in for Martin, Brock Hoffman was shifted to the center position to accommodate rookie Cooper Beebe’s concussion-related absence. Left tackle Chuma Edoga briefly exited the Panthers game with an ankle issue but returned, switching positions to right guard following T.J. Bass’s leg injury.
Initially, Dowdle’s season began slowly as he averaged just 34 yards over the first four games while Ezekiel Elliott featured prominently in the running back rotation. Since Elliott’s return from a season away, it appears his role with the Cowboys—and possibly his career trajectory—has diminished, allowing Dowdle more opportunities as he approaches free agency.
The Cowboys’ future roster decisions regarding Dowdle might hinge on the upcoming draft. As they trend towards a mid-first-round pick, there’s speculation about selecting Ashton Jeanty from Boise State, a Heisman finalist who has local ties, should he be available.
Cooper Rush has established himself as a reliable backup since filling in for an injured Dak Prescott and going 4-1 last season. Following a strong performance against the Panthers where he recorded three touchdown passes, he has a record of 3-3 in the wake of Prescott’s hamstring injury and recent recoveries.
Nonetheless, discipline remains an issue for the Cowboys, who rank among the most penalized teams in the NFL. They faced a season-high 14 penalties in the game against Carolina, with five resulting in first downs for the Panthers.
Looking at individual performances, wide receiver CeeDee Lamb had a notable outing, surpassing 100 yards in the first half and finishing with 116, after entering the game with only one 100-yard performance this season. Lamb, who signed a four-year extension worth $136 million in August, has remained consistent while battling through a shoulder injury.
On the downside, tight end Luke Schoonmaker’s role seems to have declined now that Jake Ferguson has returned from a concussion. Schoonmaker did not receive any targets for the first time since early November after two strong outings while Ferguson was sidelined.
The Cowboys are also keeping an eye on injuries, specifically that of defensive end DeMarcus Lawrence, who has been out since Week 4 due to a foot injury. With the team’s slim playoff chances, keeping Lawrence healthy for free agency seems to be the priority.
In recent weeks, the Cowboys have seen a favorable turnover margin, improving to plus-six over their last four games after previously struggling with a minus-11 rating.
Looking ahead, the Cowboys have performed well on short rest, boasting a 4-0 record, yet they sit at 2-8 when given regular or extra rest. As they prepare for upcoming games against division frontrunners, including a match against the Buccaneers and then a trip to Philadelphia, maintaining focus will be crucial.