Pittsburgh Steelers Sign Running Back Rico Dowdle to Two-Year Deal

The Pittsburgh Steelers have signed running back Rico Dowdle to a two-year contract worth $12.25 million, as reported by NFL Network Insider Tom Pelissero. This move comes in the wake of the departure of Kenneth Gainwell, who signed a two-year, $14 million deal with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers earlier on the same day. Dowdle's addition is aimed at bolstering the Steelers' backfield, where he will join Jaylen Warren and Kaleb Johnson.

USA TodaySteelers sign breakout star running backContract Details Revealed for Steelers Deal with Rico DowdleSteelers expected to sign former Panthers RB Rico DowdleESPN

Rico Dowdle, a six-year NFL veteran, has recently completed back-to-back seasons with over 1,000 rushing yards. He began his career as an undrafted free agent with the Dallas Cowboys, where he played from 2020 to 2024. Dowdle's breakout season came in 2024 when he rushed for 1,079 yards and two touchdowns. He then signed a one-year deal with the Carolina Panthers, where he recorded 1,076 rushing yards and six touchdowns in the 2025 season. Dowdle's performance included notable games, such as a franchise-record 473 scrimmage yards over two games during the 2025 season.

1,000-Yard Rusher Agrees to Contract With Pittsburgh SteelersReport: Steelers to sign former Cowboys, Panthers RB Rico DowdleSteelers Secure RB Rico Dowdle with Two-Year, $12.25 Million ContractBleacher ReportESPN

Dowdle's signing is significant for the Steelers as they seek to fill the void left by Gainwell, who was a key player in the previous season. While Gainwell was known for his versatility and effectiveness in the passing game, Dowdle brings a more physical running style, making him a traditional between-the-tackles runner. This change in dynamic is expected to complement Warren's skill set, as Warren excelled in third-down situations last season.

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Steelers head coach Mike McCarthy, who previously coached Dowdle in Dallas, expressed confidence in Dowdle's abilities, stating that he is a "big, physical, decisive runner" who can effectively contribute to the team's ground game. Dowdle's familiarity with McCarthy's offensive schemes is anticipated to facilitate a smooth transition into the Steelers' system.

Heavy

While many fans and analysts view Dowdle's signing positively, some critics have pointed out that his late-season performance with the Panthers raised concerns. Dowdle's production dwindled towards the end of the 2025 season, leading to questions about his consistency and ability to handle a lead role. Additionally, some fans have expressed disappointment over the loss of Gainwell, who was the Steelers' team MVP last season.

Steelers Secure RB Rico Dowdle with Two-Year, $12.25 Million Deal

With Dowdle's arrival, the Steelers are expected to focus on refining their backfield dynamics ahead of the 2026 NFL Draft. The team may opt to address other positional needs rather than seeking additional running back options, given their current depth chart. As the Steelers prepare for the upcoming season, the combination of Dowdle and Warren is anticipated to create a formidable rushing attack.

Report: Steelers Signing RB Rico Dowdle

• “Dowdle is a big, physical, decisive runner who is urgent upfield with short-area burst,” — NFL Analyst

Steelers land Rico Dowdle after RB’s breakout 2025 season

• “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].” — Rico Dowdle

Report: Steelers to sign former Cowboys, Panthers RB Rico Dowdle

The signing of Rico Dowdle marks a strategic move for the Pittsburgh Steelers as they aim to enhance their offensive capabilities in the 2026 season.

Report: Steelers Signing RB Rico Dowdle