Feb. 4, 2026, 11:46 p.m. ET<\/p>\n
Could Carolina Panthers<\/a> free-agent running back Rico Dowdle be readying to buckle up<\/a> for a trip back to the “Lone Star State?”<\/p>\n Dowdle, who’s set to hit the open market this offseason, was present at Super Bowl LX’s “Radio Row” on Wednesday. He was asked, via ALLCITY Network, if he’d consider returning to the Dallas Cowboys<\/a>.<\/p>\n Here was his response . . .<\/p>\n Before joining the Panthers this past season, the Gaffney, S.C. native spent the first five years of his pro career in Dallas. But it wouldn’t be until his last campaign there, in 2024, where Dowdle really broke out\u2014as he rushed for a career-high 1,079 yards and two touchdowns on 235 carries while reeling in 39 catches for 249 yards and three more scores.<\/p>\n Dowdle just about matched that output in 2025, amassing 1,076 yards and six touchdowns on 236 carries along with 39 receptions for 297 yards and a receiving touchdown. One of his best performances for Carolina came against Dallas in Week 6, where he totaled 239 scrimmage yards in a 30-27 win<\/a>.<\/p>\n Expert NFL picks: Exclusive betting insights only at USA TODAY.<\/a><\/p>\n The chances of Dowdle returning to the Panthers appear slim. During exit interviews back in January, the 27-year-old veteran told reporters<\/a> that he’ll be looking to sign on for a featured role\u2014something that may not be available to him in Carolina any longer.<\/p>\n But perhaps that opportunity could be awaiting back at his first NFL home.<\/p>\n