Rico Dowdle Heads to Carolina Panthers After Breakout Season with Cowboys
Former South Carolina running back Rico Dowdle is making a move in the NFL, signing a one-year, $3 million deal with the Carolina Panthers. The contract could rise to $6.5 million with incentives and bonuses.
Coming off a breakout season with the Dallas Cowboys, Dowdle rushed for 1,079 yards and two touchdowns, while also recording 249 receiving yards and three receiving scores. The Cowboys initially planned a running back committee, but by midseason, Dowdle had earned the starting role.
Now, the Asheville, North Carolina native will be playing just two hours from home, reuniting with familiar surroundings near his alma mater, South Carolina. His speed and versatility, showcased with the Cowboys, will now be an asset for the Panthers.
The Panthers brought in Dowdle as a backup to Chuba Hubbard, who recently landed a four-year, $33.2 million extension. However, Dowdle will still have chances to make an impact. With rookie Jonathon Brooks still recovering from an ACL injury, the Panthers needed a reliable backup, and Dowdle was their choice.
Historic Season with the Cowboys
Dowdle etched his name in Cowboys history, becoming the first undrafted running back to surpass 1,000 rushing yards in a season. He also became the first undrafted player in franchise history to post three consecutive 100-yard rushing games.
South Carolina Roots Run Deep in Carolina
Dowdle won’t be the only former Gamecock in Carolina. He joins a group that includes Jaycee Horn, who just signed a massive extension, DJ Wonnum, second-year receiver Xavier Legette, and veteran Jadeveon Clowney. With South Carolina’s influence growing within the franchise, the Panthers are tapping into familiar talent close to home.
