RicoDowdle

News: 9 hours agoDowdle (toe) didn't practice Thursday, Alan Saunders of Steelers Now reports.

Spin: Dowdle has been sidelined for Pittsburgh's first two practices leading up to Sunday's Week 3 matchup against the AFC North rival Bengals, though he at least managed to shed his walking boot Thursday. Jaylen Warren (shoulder) was listed as limited both Wednesday and Thursday. If Dowdle's unable to practice Friday, he'll likely sit out Sunday, which could lead to more touches for Warren in a Steelers backfield that started out close to an even split when both running backs were healthy.

ESPN Fantasy Projection: Dowdle signed with the Steelers after nearly identical campaigns with the Cowboys in 2024 (1,328 yards and five TDs on 274 touches) and Panthers in 2025 (1,373 yards and seven TDs on 275 touches). He was effective as a rusher (4.57 yards per carry) and fairly busy as a receiver (50 targets both years) en route to finishing just inside the top 25 in fantasy points per game both seasons. Now in Pittsburgh, the 28-year-old is expected to share work with Jaylen Warren. Earning lead-rusher duties could get Dowdle into the weekly flex discussion, but the ceiling will be low and he'll likely need an injury in order to find his way to consistent fantasy output. Consider him for your bench.