Carolina Panthers running back Rico Dowdle acknowledged Sunday that his reduced workload late in the season will factor into his upcoming free agency decision. As the Panthers evaluate their roster following a playoff loss, Dowdle’s role has become one of several unresolved questions.
Reduced Role Raises Questions
Dowdle signed a one-year deal worth up to $6.25 million last March after surpassing 1,000 rushing yards with the Dallas Cowboys in 2024. He followed that up with another productive season, finishing with 1,076 rushing yards for Carolina.
However, his involvement declined at a critical time. In Saturday’s 34–31 playoff loss to the Los Angeles Rams, Dowdle logged just five carries for nine yards. That limited usage reflected a broader trend late in the year.
Late-Season Usage Shift
Over his final four games, Dowdle averaged only 8.25 carries. Previously, he had averaged 20 carries across a seven-game stretch, including a 30-carry performance in an Oct. 12 win against Dallas when Chuba Hubbard was sidelined.
When asked if the shift in workload affected his thinking about free agency, Dowdle made his position clear.
“That definitely is a factor,” he told ESPN’s David Newton. “There’s options for me. I just want to be a guy who can go out there and just get the bulk [of the carries].” (Source)
Crowded Backfield in Carolina
That opportunity may be difficult to find in Carolina. Hubbard is signed through the 2028 season after agreeing to a four-year, $33.2 million extension in November 2024. Additionally, 2024 second-round pick Jonathon Brooks is expected to return from ACL surgery in 2026.
The Panthers also added depth by selecting Trevor Etienne in the fourth round of the 2025 NFL Draft. As a result, the path to a featured role appears uncertain.
Panthers Taking a Wait-and-See Approach
Head coach Dave Canales offered no definitive answers when asked about Dowdle’s future. Instead, he emphasized evaluation and patience as the team enters the offseason.
“These are all things we’re gonna have to talk about over the next couple of days,” Canales said. “We have to evaluate all the guys that our contracts are up [with] and see what our next best move is.”
For now, both sides appear content to let the process play out. Still, Dowdle’s desire for a heavier workload could ultimately push him toward exploring opportunities elsewhere once free agency opens.