Rico Dowdle: I aspire to be the primary ball-carrier - NBC Sports
The excitement is palpable among the Carolina Panthers as they look ahead to the 2026 season after making a successful return to the playoffs this year. However, there is some uncertainty surrounding running back Rico Dowdle's future with the team, as he may not continue in Charlotte for another season.
Dowdle joined the Panthers on a one-year contract as a free agent during the offseason and began the season as the backup to Chuba Hubbard in the team's running back lineup. He had a noteworthy performance, accumulating 473 yards from scrimmage when Hubbard was sidelined due to an injury in October. Yet, Dowdle's playing time varied significantly throughout the remainder of the season. In the recent loss against the Rams, Dowdle managed only five carries for a mere nine yards, while Hubbard recorded 13 carries for 46 yards and scored two touchdowns.
Following this game, Dowdle shared his thoughts on how his anticipated role will play a crucial part in his decision regarding where he will play next season.
"That definitely is a factor," Dowdle stated, as reported by David Newton of ESPN.com. "There are options available for me. My goal is simply to be the guy who can go out there and carry the bulk of the load."
Dowdle concluded the season with impressive stats, totaling 236 carries for 1,076 yards and achieving six touchdowns. This marked his second consecutive season exceeding 1,000 rushing yards, and it appears he is aiming for a remarkable third straight season, albeit potentially with three different teams.
