Cowboys Beat: RB Rico Dowdle a potential breakout candidate

Jul 23, 2024

Rico Dowdle, an undrafted, 26-year-old running back, functioned as the Cowboys No. 2 running back behind Tony Pollard in 2023 at the age of 25, but in 2024, there's the chance he may end up leading Dallas in carries in the regular season.

"Definitely, he's had a good off season, looks great," HC Mike McCarthy said at Cowboys OTAs on May 30. "You know, I think just like anytime these guys have a chance to really hone in their training. So, Rico's done an excellent job there. Very comfortable [with him]. He's very, very bright, very instinctive football player. So, he's definitely one of the the lead lead guys in the room as far as his experience here, but also his understanding of the offense."

Related players: Ezekiel Elliott, Deuce Vaughn

Fantasy Impact:

Dowdle was listed among five potential Cowboys breakout candidates for this coming season. Dowdle compared his running style to Elliott's, just smaller in size, and he believes he is more of an all-around RB. In the story, Elliott said he views himself as a starter but also wants to keep himself fresh for a stretch run and potential playoff run, meaning Dowdle could get significant work in the offense. The Cowboys RB situation is just one of many things to keep an eye on this offseason.

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Packers WR Romeo Doubs (concussion) progressing

Rob Demovsky on X

3 minutes ago

Packers coach Matt LaFleur said while Romeo Doubs is still in the concussion protocol, he has progressed to the point where he could possibly play.

Fantasy Impact:

The Packers are hoping to get Doubs back for Thursday Night Football in what is a huge game against the Lions. Hopefully Doubs continues to progress and we'll continue to monitor his practice status as the week goes on.

Saints open practice window for RB Kendre Miller, WR Bub Means

Mike Triplett on X

6 minutes ago

Saints coach Darren Rizzi said team is expected to open the practice window for both RB Kendre Miller and WR Bub Means this week as they're eligible to return from IR.

Related players: Alvin Kamara

Fantasy Impact:

Another beat reporter, Ross Jackson, went on add in a post on X that Miller will get a clean slate and it's "all gas, no brakes" when Miller gets back. With the Saints not going anywhere, the return of Miller could eat into Kamara's workload. Taysom Hill is out for the season, so Kamara may get an extra crack at the end zone now and then, but it's probably worth it for the Saints to get more looks at Miller to close out the season. It's just something for Kamara owners to keep in mind once Miller is back on the field.

Saints TE Taysom Hill (ACL) out for the season

Adam Schefter on X

2 hours ago

Tests today confirmed that Saints TE Taysom Hill is out for the year with the knee injury he suffered Sunday, per source.

Fantasy Impact:

This was the fear after the injury happened during Sunday's game. Hill had six rushing touchdowns this season as that's the area where he did the most damage this year. The injury should open up more chances for Alvin Kamara, but the Saints lose another offensive weapon for the rest of the season. Hill is under contract with the Saints for one more season.