Rico Dowdle

Career StatsD

Year	Team	GP	Yards	TD	YPC
Career		69	2,540	10	4.5
2025		17	1,076	6	4.6
2024		16	1,079	2	4.6
2023		16

Current Contract

Contract Value Index (CVI)

The Steelers struck a fair deal in signing Rico Dowdle to a 2-year, $12.3M contract ($6.1M AAV), earning a solid C CVI that reflects reasonable market value for a depth piece at the NFL's most replaceable position. At $6.1M annually, Pittsburgh is paying appropriate compensation for a running back who projects as a rotational contributor rather than a featured back, avoiding the salary inflation that has burned teams chasing big-name rushers in recent years. Dowdle enters his prime years with enough tread left on the tires to provide reliable production without the long-term commitment that makes running back contracts dangerous. The structure works in Pittsburgh's favor with just $5.0M guaranteed against the $12.3M total, giving the franchise flexibility to move on after year one if Dowdle doesn't fit their offensive scheme or if a younger option emerges. This signing exemplifies smart roster building — the Steelers identified a specific role player, paid market rate without reaching, and maintained financial flexibility in a contract that won't handcuff their salary cap if it doesn't pan out.

Performance Analysis

Rico Dowdle grades as a rotational player among NFL running backs — a below-average player at the position. His strongest area is yards per carry at 4.56 (above the NFL average of 4.10), ranking as above average for the position. Rushing touchdowns per game, at 0.35 compared to an NFL average of 0.35, is where he falls short relative to the position.

Fan Sentiment

Pittsburgh lands a proven lead back on a reasonable two-year, $12.25M deal — a solid depth upgrade. Multiple reporters covered the deal, with Chris Simms questioning whether Kaleb Johnson's role is now diminished. The $12.25M price tag signals Pittsburgh views Dowdle as a legitimate starter, not a rotational piece. Fans are buzzing about the Jerome Bettis-approved nickname for the new Steelers RB duo. Dowdle's receiving ability and durability should give Pittsburgh a reliable backfield anchor heading into 2025.