Rico Dowdle’s journey from undrafted rookie to NFL standout has been nothing short of remarkable. In 2025, he made headlines with the Carolina Panthers, delivering a performance that not only showcased his on-field prowess but also highlighted his evolving role in the NFL.
Career Overview
Rico Sharod Dowdle Jr. was born on June 14, 1998, in Gaffney, South Carolina. Standing 5’11” and weighing 215 lbs, he played college football at the University of South Carolina from 2016 to 2019. Despite his collegiate success, Dowdle went undrafted in the 2020 NFL Draft but was signed by the Dallas Cowboys as a free agent. Over five seasons with the Cowboys, he became the first undrafted player in team history to rush for over 1,000 yards in a single season.
In March 2025, Dowdle signed a one-year, $2.75 million contract with the Carolina Panthers, including a $1 million signing bonus and up to $3.5 million in performance incentives. This move marked a new chapter in his career, as he joined a backfield led by Chuba Hubbard and rookie Trevor Etienne.
College Career
At South Carolina, Dowdle established himself as a formidable running back. He finished his collegiate career with 2,617 rushing yards, ranking 15th on the school’s all-time list. Additionally, he recorded 16 rushing touchdowns, 483 receiving yards, and three receiving scores.
2025 Contract & Salary
Dowdle’s 2025 contract with the Panthers includes:
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Base Salary: $1,170,000
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Signing Bonus: $1,000,000
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Workout Bonus: $30,000
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Cap Hit: $2,717,647
The contract is fully guaranteed, with additional performance incentives available.
“Buckle Up” Moment
Dowdle’s confidence was evident when he faced his former team, the Dallas Cowboys, in Week 6 of the 2025 NFL season. Prior to the game, he boldly stated, “They wasn’t buckled up,” referencing his previous remarks. In that game, he rushed for 183 yards, caught a touchdown pass, and totaled 239 scrimmage yards, becoming the first Panthers player to surpass 200 scrimmage yards in back-to-back games.
Fantasy Football Outlook
Dowdle’s performance in Week 6 made him one of the top fantasy football scoring leaders, alongside Patrick Mahomes and George Pickens. His consistent yardage and involvement in both the rushing and passing game make him a valuable asset in fantasy leagues, especially in PPR formats.
Looking Ahead
With his impressive 2025 season, Dowdle has positioned himself as a key player in the Panthers’ offense. His ability to perform under pressure and his dynamic skill set suggest that he will continue to be a significant contributor in the NFL.
