The Dallas Cowboys have always been known for their strong and dynamic backfield, with star players like Emmitt Smith, Tony Dorsett, and Ezekiel Elliott leading the charge. However, as the team makes changes to their backfield this offseason, one decision has left NFL writer, John Smith, feeling uninspired.
The decision in question is the Cowboys’ choice to allow running back Rico Dowdle to walk to the Carolina Panthers. Dowdle, who was signed as an undrafted free agent in 2020, showed promise during his rookie season, but was ultimately released by the Cowboys in March of this year.
For Smith, this move by the Cowboys is a head-scratcher. In his recent article, he expresses his disappointment in the team’s decision, stating that Dowdle had the potential to become a valuable asset for the Cowboys’ backfield.
Smith points out that Dowdle’s college career at the University of South Carolina was impressive, with over 2,000 rushing yards and 16 touchdowns in just three seasons. He also notes that Dowdle’s versatility as a runner, receiver, and returner made him a valuable player for the Cowboys.
But despite these qualities, the Cowboys chose to let Dowdle go, and Smith believes it was a missed opportunity for the team. He argues that with Elliott’s contract situation still up in the air, the Cowboys could have used Dowdle as a backup and potential replacement for the star running back.
Furthermore, Smith believes that Dowdle’s departure could also affect the Cowboys’ depth at the running back position. With only Tony Pollard and Corey Clement left on the roster, the Cowboys’ backfield lacks the depth and variety it once had.
Smith also raises concerns about the Cowboys’ decision to let Dowdle go to the Panthers, a team that has a history of developing undrafted free agents into successful players. He fears that Dowdle could thrive in Carolina and prove the Cowboys wrong for letting him go.
But perhaps the most significant factor that has left Smith feeling uninspired is the lack of a clear plan from the Cowboys’ front office. He questions the team’s strategy in the offseason, especially when it comes to the running back position. With the departure of Dowdle and the uncertainty surrounding Elliott’s future, Smith wonders what the Cowboys’ plan is for their backfield.
In conclusion, Smith’s article serves as a reminder that even the most successful teams make questionable decisions. And for the Cowboys, allowing Rico Dowdle to walk to the Panthers may be one of them. While the team may have their reasons for this move, it has left one NFL writer feeling uninspired and concerned about the future of the Cowboys’ backfield. Only time will tell if this decision will come back to haunt the team, but for now, it remains a questionable move in the eyes of many.
