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Dallas Cowboys Rumors Predict Reunion With Former Star RB To Replace Javonte Williams

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This article was originally published on Total Pro Sports.

Dallas Cowboys players.
Dallas Cowboys players. Credit: Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images

The Dallas Cowboys’ running game could lose Javonte Williams in the offseason, but it seems that the solution to that issue might be a familiar face. The Cowboys and Williams have expressed interest in extending their partnership, but things could take a different route as free agency closes in.

If Williams leaves, the Cowboys could turn to a former running back who just posted his best season to date. Pro Football Focus’ Mason Cameron sees the Cowboys bringing back Rico Dowdle in free agency.

“With run-game mastermind Klayton Adams having great success in his first season as the Cowboys’ offensive coordinator, it may be time for a reunion between Dowdle and his former team,” Cameron wrote.

“Dowdle is at his best when running behind pull blocks. He generated 6.5 yards per attempt while ripping off nine runs of 10 or more yards on power, counter and pull-lead concepts in 2025, both of which placed him inside the top five among qualifying backs. He would be a perfect fit in Adams’ power running game, as the Cowboys ran the fourth-most runs out of those three concepts.”

Rico Dowdle Open To Return To Dallas

Nov 9, 2025; Charlotte, North Carolina, USA; Carolina Panthers running back Rico Dowdle (5) during player introductions at Bank of America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-Imagn Images

Rico Dowdle fueled the speculation on Wednesday, when he revealed he would consider a return to the Lone Star this offseason.

“Oh yeah, for sure. I would never take the option off the table,” Dowdle said. “I definitely would consider coming back to Dallas. Truly thankful for them. Like I said, they blessed me and gave me the opportunity, the starting point to be where I am today. So, definitely would be open.”

In his first season with the Carolina Panthers, Rico Dowdle posted career highs in games played (17), carries (236) and touchdowns (six). He was three yards shy of tying his best record (1,076). Javonte Williams led the Cowboys in carries (252), yards (1,201), and touchdowns (11). He and wide receiver George Pickens led the offense last season. Coincidentally, both could leave in free agency.

The Cowboys were linked with a 42-touchdown running back, too, but Dowdle might be the safest bet.

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