Rico Dowdle Posts Quiet Playoff Showing, Heads to Free Agency After Losing Lead Role

Rico Dowdle recorded five rushes for nine yards and one reception on two targets for six yards in the Panthers' 34-31 wild-card loss to the Rams. He has been particularly inefficient to close the season, averaging only 3.3 yards per carry across Carolina's final four regular-season contests. Dowdle lost his status as the team's lead back in the playoff loss, with Chuba Hubbard out-touching him 15-6. He is headed to free agency for the second consecutive offseason and is likely to be signed as a complementary back.