After missing all of last year with a fractured hip, Running Back Rico Dowdle is now sidelined after a knee scope procedure earlier this offseason. A prospect for both RB depth and special teams duties in 2022, can Dowdle return in time for camp and compete for a roster spot with the Dallas Cowboys?
Dowdle was a virtual lock to make the team as RB3 behind Ezekiel Elliott and Tony Pollard in 2021. Not only had he flashed offensive ability on limited carries as a rookie the year before, Rico had made some big plays both as a kicker returner and in special teams coverage duties.
Unfortunately, Dowdle’s year ended with the hip fracture in the third preseason game. The Cowboys would soon add veteran free agent Corey Clement to fill depth chart.
Dallas did not re-sign Clement so far this offseason, nor have they added any other experienced RB talent. Instead it again feels like Rico’s job to lose against other young prospects like 2021 Hard Knocks star JaQuan Hardy and undrafted rookies Malik Davis and Aaron Shampklin.
Also in the mix are two fullbacks, veteran Ryan Nall and second-year prospect Nick Ralston. Having not carried a fullback at all in 2021, Dallas may be going back to one this year to help boost the run game.
Nall has experience at both RB and FB, plus special teams work that makes him the current favorite to make the roster. His versatility could also allow Dallas to just keep him, Elliott, and Pollard without the need for an additional back.
Special teams is a critical component at the bottom of any depth chart. It’s how Rico Dowdle was able to be active for 15 games in 2020 and was likely his ticket to a roster spot last year before the injury.
If he can get back for camp then Rico should still be competitive. The ability to shine both in a return role and on coverage is hard to find.
While Tony Pollard did finally shine himself as a kick returner last year, his importance to the offense and impending free agency could have both Pollard and the team looking protect his health. Getting another player into that role may be a priority for both parties.
Not only could he help the team in 2022, but Dowdle would love to give the Cowboys something to think about for next year when Elliott and Pollard’s contracts will both be hot topics.
Rico Dowdle is one of those guys who does the “little things” that make football teams complete. Hopefully he can return from these medical setbacks and restore the career momentum he built as a rookie.
