Breaking News:Rico Dowdle Makes Cowboys History as First Undrafted 1,000 Yard Rusher…

Dallas, TX – January 5, 2025 – The Dallas Cowboys have long been known for their rich history of star running backs, from Emmitt Smith to Tony Dorsett, but this season, a new name has etched itself into the franchise’s record books. Rico Dowdle, a former undrafted free agent, became the first undrafted player in Cowboys history to rush for 1,000 yards in a single season.

What makes Dowdle’s accomplishment even more remarkable is that he wasn’t even the Cowboys’ lead running back until November. After spending the first half of the season in a rotational role behind Tony Pollard, Dowdle seized the opportunity when given the chance to take over as the primary back. His combination of power, vision, and determination turned him into one of the NFL’s most surprising success stories of the year.

A Journey of Perseverance

Dowdle’s road to NFL success has been anything but easy. Coming out of South Carolina in 2020, he went undrafted, largely due to injuries that plagued his college career. The Cowboys signed him as a free agent, but he spent most of his first few seasons as a backup and special teams contributor. Despite flashes of potential in limited action, injuries continued to slow his progress.

However, Dowdle remained patient, worked hard, and made the most of his chances when they came. In 2023, he showed glimpses of his ability as Pollard’s backup, and when the Cowboys opted not to re-sign Ezekiel Elliott, many believed Dowdle could take on a larger role. Still, the team initially leaned on Pollard as their primary ball carrier—until Dowdle’s play made it impossible to keep him off the field.

Taking Over in November

The turning point came in November when Pollard struggled to find consistency, and head coach Mike McCarthy began giving Dowdle more touches. The 25-year-old running back responded with one strong performance after another, delivering tough yards and explosive plays. His physical running style gave the Cowboys offense a much-needed spark, helping them maintain offensive balance and keep defenses honest.

By December, Dowdle had fully cemented himself as the team’s lead back. He delivered multiple 100-yard performances down the stretch, carrying the Cowboys’ rushing attack as they pushed toward the playoffs. His milestone 1,000-yard season was sealed with a dominant outing in Week 18, putting an exclamation point on his breakout campaign.

Cowboys Teammates and Fans Celebrate

Dowdle’s accomplishment has been met with widespread praise from teammates, coaches, and Cowboys fans alike. Quarterback Dak Prescott was among the first to congratulate him, calling Dowdle’s achievement “a testament to hard work and perseverance.”

“He’s earned every yard this season,” Prescott said. “He runs hard, he plays tough, and he never complains. That’s the kind of guy you love having in the locker room.”

Head coach Mike McCarthy also praised Dowdle’s work ethic, noting how his persistence paid off.

“He’s always been ready for his moment,” McCarthy said. “Every time we called his number, he delivered. This is just the beginning for him.”

Cowboys fans, known for their passionate support of underdog stories, have rallied behind Dowdle all season. Many are now calling for the team to ensure he returns in 2025, either on a new contract or by making him the focal point of the rushing attack moving forward.

What’s Next for Dowdle?

With free agency looming, the Cowboys have a major decision to make regarding Dowdle’s future. After proving he can be a reliable and productive starting running back, he is expected to draw interest from teams looking for a power runner. However, Dallas has every reason to prioritize keeping him in their backfield.

If the Cowboys do bring him back, it could mark the start of a new era in their rushing attack—one led by an undrafted player who defied the odds. Regardless of what the future holds, Dowdle’s 2024 season will be remembered as one of the most inspiring stories in recent Cowboys history.

For now, Cowboys fans can celebrate the fact that their team has found an unlikely star, and Rico Dowdle can take pride in knowing he has earned his place in the franchise’s storied history.