Former South Carolina running back Rico Dowdle is coming off a career year. With the Dallas Cowboys in 2024, he ran for over 1000 yards and logged over 1300 yards from scrimmage. His big season has earned him a new contract in NFL free agency. According to the organization, Dowdle is signing a one-year deal with the Carolina Panthers. The deal could be worth just over $6 Million.
With the Panthers, Dowdle will partner with Chuba Hubbard to form an interesting one-two punch in Charlotte. Hubbard signed an extension with the Panthers during the latter portion of the 2024 season.
He also will reunite with former Gamecock teammates Jaycee Horn, DJ Wonnum, and Xavier Legette and fellow former USC star Jadeveon Clowney. Earlier this free agency, Horn became the highest-paid defensive back in pro football history.
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The move to Charlotte puts Dowdle closer to home, both the University of South Carolina and his hometown of Asheville, North Carolina.
2024 was Dowdle’s first real opportunity at a major role in an NFL offense. Despite dealing with injuries through college and even some in the league, he remained healthy and posted strong numbers. Dowdle set a Cowboys franchise record for rushing yardage by an undrafted player with 1079.
With the Panthers, he likely will be in more of a time-share, but that should allow him to maintain his clean bill of health.
During his South Carolina football career, Dowdle finished his time in garnet and black with 2167 rushing yards, a number that is good for 14th-best in program history. He also is one of just eight Carolina backs ever to rush for 200 yards in a single game.
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