Carolina Panthers running back Rico Dowdle missed Wednesday’s practice with a quadricep injury and was a limited participant on Thursday. However, it sounds like the Panthers are just being cautious, and he should be good to play on Sunday against the rival New Orleans Saints, as he does not carry an injury designation.
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Rico Dowdle Injury Update: Panthers RB Limited With Quad Injury
Rico Dowdle has been one of the breakthrough stars of the 2025 season, and this injury shouldn’t change that. Following a 1,000-yard season with the Dallas Cowboys, the former undrafted free agent signed with the Carolina Panthers to be Chuba Hubbard’s primary backup. However, he stole the starting job and became one of the league’s most efficient backs. Through nine games (three starts), Dowdle has recorded 735 yards and four touchdowns on just 131 attempts, good for a staggering 5.6 yards per carry. Most of this production has come in recent weeks, as he’s reached at least 130 rushing yards in three of his past five contests.
With his help, the Carolina Panthers enter Week 10 with a 5-4 record as they face off against the 1-8 New Orleans Saints. After years of kicking the can down the line, the bill finally came due as the Saints embraced a rebuild under first-year head coach Kellen Moore. After starting the season with second-year quarterback Spencer Rattler under center, rookie Tyler Shough will make his second career start against Carolina. Last week, the Louisville product completed 15 of his 24 attempts for 176 yards, one touchdown, and one interception in a lopsided loss to the Los Angeles Rams.
If the injury doesn’t sideline him, Rico Dowdle should have another good game against relatively weak competition. However, if he can’t suit up, Chuba Hubbard should be able to handle starting duties and help Carolina advance to 6-4.
Main Photo: Dan Powers – Imagn Images
