Pittsburgh Steelers Sign 1,000-Yard Rusher to 2-Year Deal

Rico Dowdle joins the Steelers after back-to-back 1,000-yard seasons with the Cowboys and Panthers.

Published on Mar. 10, 2026

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The Pittsburgh Steelers have signed free agent running back Rico Dowdle to a two-year, $12.25 million contract. Dowdle, who has recorded over 1,000 rushing yards in each of the past two seasons with the Dallas Cowboys and Carolina Panthers, will join the Steelers' backfield alongside 27-year-old Jaylen Warren.

Why it matters

The Steelers were in need of a proven running back to complement their young core, and Dowdle's addition provides them with a versatile offensive weapon who can both run and catch the ball effectively. His signing is a key move as the team looks to build on a promising 2025 season.

The details

Dowdle, 26, originally signed a one-year, $6.25 million deal with the Panthers in 2025 after being let go by the Cowboys. He ended up having a breakout year, racking up 1,076 rushing yards and 6 touchdowns on 236 attempts. The Steelers are hoping he can bring that same level of production to their backfield as they look to establish a strong running game to support their passing attack.

  • Dowdle signed a two-year, $12.25 million contract with the Steelers on March 10, 2026.
  • In the 2024 season with the Cowboys, Dowdle totaled 1,079 rushing yards and 2 touchdowns.
  • In the 2025 season with the Panthers, Dowdle recorded 1,076 rushing yards and 6 touchdowns.

The players

Rico Dowdle

A 26-year-old running back who has recorded over 1,000 rushing yards in each of the past two seasons with the Dallas Cowboys and Carolina Panthers.

Jaylen Warren

A 27-year-old running back who will join Dowdle in the Steelers' backfield.

Kaleb Johnson

A 2025 second-round pick by the Steelers who is expected to also get carries in the team's running back rotation.

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What they’re saying

“We must add more firepower to our offense, and Rico Dowdle gives us a proven 1,000-yard rusher to pair with our young core.”

— Mike Tomlin, Head Coach, Pittsburgh Steelers (Steelers press conference)

What’s next

The Steelers will look to integrate Dowdle into their offense during the offseason program and training camp, with the goal of having a balanced attack that can keep defenses off-balance.

The takeaway

The Steelers' signing of Rico Dowdle represents a savvy move to bolster their running game and provide quarterback Kenny Pickett with a versatile offensive weapon. Dowdle's track record of production suggests he can be a key piece as the Steelers aim to build on their promising 2025 campaign.