In a shocking turn of events that has sent ripples across the NFL landscape, ESPN reports that Carolina Panthers General Manager Dan Morgan and Head Coach Dave Canales are seriously considering terminating the contract of veteran running back Rico Dowdle ahead of the 2025 regular season. The move, while unexpected, comes amid concerns over Dowdle’s fit in the Panthers’ new offensive scheme and his lackluster performance during offseason workouts and mandatory minicamp.
Dowdle, who signed a one-year deal worth \$6.25 million in free agency after a breakout season with the Dallas Cowboys, was expected to play a key role in Carolina’s backfield rotation alongside starter Chuba Hubbard and rookie Trevor Etienne. However, according to sources close to the team, Dowdle has struggled to pick up the nuances of Canales’ zone-heavy rushing attack and has failed to separate himself in practices.
“There’s a growing belief inside the building that Rico simply isn’t the best fit for what we want to do schematically,” one team insider told ESPN. “His pass protection has been inconsistent, and he’s looked a step slow compared to both Hubbard and Etienne.”
What’s even more surprising is that the Panthers invested heavily in Dowdle as a potential third-down option and red zone weapon. But with Etienne impressing coaches and Raheem Blackshear showing value on special teams, the front office appears ready to move on from the veteran before final roster cuts.
Terminating Dowdle’s contract would incur a modest cap hit but also free up money for other key roster areas, including offensive line depth and linebacker help. It would also signal that Dan Morgan and Dave Canales are fully committed to building a younger, faster, and more dynamic offensive identity.
While no official announcement has been made yet, sources expect the Panthers to finalize their decision within the coming days. If Dowdle is released, expect several teams in need of running back depth to show immediate interest in the 26-year-old veteran.
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