Carolina RB Rico Dowdle Could Be Surprise Addition for Broncos

Dowdle has posted back-to-back 1,000-yard rushing seasons but may come at a lower price tag than top free agent backs.

Feb. 26, 2026 at 5:55am

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The Denver Broncos are in need of a strong running game to complement quarterback Bo Nix, and Carolina Panthers running back Rico Dowdle could be an under-the-radar option. Dowdle, 27, has recorded over 1,000 rushing yards in each of the past two seasons, including 1,076 yards and 6 touchdowns in 2025. While top free agent backs like Breece Hall and Kenneth Walker will likely demand top dollar, Dowdle may be available at a more affordable price, making him an intriguing addition for the Broncos.

Why it matters

The Broncos struggled to establish a consistent running game in 2025 after losing JK Dobbins to a season-ending injury, and rookie RB R.J. Harvey was inconsistent on the ground. Adding a productive back like Dowdle could help provide balance to the Broncos' offense and take pressure off Nix in his second season as the starting QB.

The details

Dowdle, who turns 28 in June, has posted nearly identical stats the past two seasons - 236 carries for 1,076 yards and 6 TDs in 2025, and 232 carries for 1,068 yards and 7 TDs in 2024 with the Cowboys. He's also a capable receiver, with 39 catches for 297 yards and a TD last season. While he had some big games, including two 200-yard performances, his production did taper off late in the year. The Broncos passed on Dowdle last offseason when he signed a 1-year, $2.75 million deal with the Panthers, but his price tag may be higher this time around.

  • Dowdle is set to become an unrestricted free agent in March 2026.

The players

Rico Dowdle

A 27-year-old running back who has recorded over 1,000 rushing yards in each of the past two seasons with the Carolina Panthers and Dallas Cowboys.

R.J. Harvey

A rookie running back drafted by the Denver Broncos in the second round in 2025 who struggled with consistency as the team's lead back after an injury to JK Dobbins.

JK Dobbins

A veteran running back signed by the Denver Broncos in 2025 who had a strong start to the season before suffering a season-ending Lisfranc injury.

Bo Nix

The starting quarterback for the Denver Broncos, who will need a strong running game to take pressure off him in his second season as the team's QB1.

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What’s next

The Broncos will need to evaluate their options at running back this offseason, including whether to pursue Dowdle or target one of the top free agent backs available.

The takeaway

Dowdle could be an intriguing, cost-effective option for the Broncos to bolster their running game and provide balance to their offense, but the team may ultimately decide to make a bigger splash at the position in free agency or the draft.