Published on Feb. 18, 2026

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The Denver Broncos are reportedly interested in signing free agent running back Rico Dowdle from the Carolina Panthers as a potential replacement for J.K. Dobbins. Dowdle, who rushed for 1,076 yards and 6 touchdowns last season, would provide a physical, downhill running presence to pair with the more pass-catching oriented RJ Harvey in the Broncos’ backfield.

Why it matters

The Broncos are looking to bolster their offense after a disappointing end to the 2025 season. Adding a productive running back like Dowdle could help them return to the AFC title game, especially if he can complement Harvey’s skillset well.

The details

Dowdle, 27, previously spent the first part of his NFL career with the Dallas Cowboys before breaking out with the Panthers in 2024 and 2025. He rushed for over 1,000 yards in both seasons and would provide a physical, goal-line presence that could take some of the load off Harvey. The Broncos could choose to re-sign Dobbins, but Dowdle may be a better fit for their offense under new coach Sean Payton.

Dowdle is set to become a free agent this offseason.The Broncos’ season ended in a 10-7 loss to the Patriots in the playoffs.
The players

Rico Dowdle

A 27-year-old running back who rushed for 1,076 yards and 6 touchdowns for the Carolina Panthers in 2025.

RJ Harvey

The Broncos’ pass-catching running back who could form a complementary backfield with Dowdle.

J.K. Dobbins

The Broncos’ current starting running back who is set to become a free agent this offseason.

Sean Payton

The Broncos’ new head coach who could look to add a physical running back like Dowdle to his offense.

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What they’re saying

“Dowdle would step in for free agent J.K. Dobbins to pair with RJ Harvey in Denver’s backfield. In this scenario, Dowdle would split touches with Harvery, and his decisive, downhill running style works on the goal line in coach Sean Payton’s offense.”

— Matt Bowen, ESPN Analyst (ESPN)

What’s next

The Broncos will need to decide whether to re-sign Dobbins or pursue Dowdle in free agency to fill their running back needs this offseason.

The takeaway

Adding a physical, downhill runner like Rico Dowdle to complement the pass-catching abilities of RJ Harvey could be a smart move for the Broncos as they look to bolster their offense and return to the playoffs under new coach Sean Payton.