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Dallas Cowboys: What Dak Prescott Did After Rico Dowdle’s First Start With Panthers

Originally posted on Gridiron Heroics
By Angelo Guinhawa | Last updated Oct 13, 2025 11:11 AM ET

As the Dallas Cowboys prepare for their Week 6 matchup against the Carolina Panthers, the spotlight is on Dak Prescott and former teammate Rico Dowdle. After Dowdle’s impressive first start with the Panthers, where he rushed for a career-high 206 yards, Prescott reached out to congratulate him with a personal message.

This gesture reflects the camaraderie and respect that remains between the two players despite Dowdle’s departure from Dallas. Prescott’s approach ahead of the game is strategic, as he aims to avoid providing any bulletin-board material for Dowdle and the Panthers.

Dec 22, 2024; Arlington, Texas, USA; Dallas Cowboys running back Rico Dowdle (23) runs the ball against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the second half at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Tim Heitman-Imagn Images

With Dallas’ reputation on the line, Prescott has emphasized the importance of focusing on their own game plan rather than engaging in any trash talk. The quarterback’s lighthearted response to Dowdle’s comments about needing to “buckle up” indicates his desire to keep things professional while still maintaining a friendly rivalry.

Dallas’ offensive line has faced its share of injuries, making Dowdle’s performance even more notable. As the team navigates these challenges, Prescott’s leadership and experience will be crucial. He must ensure that the Cowboys capitalize on their strengths, especially as they face a Panthers defense that has struggled against the run.

Dallas Cowboys’ Dak Prescott Congratulates Rico Dowdle After First Start With Carolina Panthers

Sep 4, 2025; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott (4) against the Philadelphia Eagles at Lincoln Financial Field. Mandatory Credit: Eric Hartline-Imagn Images

Prescott message Dawdle after he had a great performance as a starter for the Panthers. This can be seen in a post shared by Ed Werder on X.

#Cowboys QB Dak Prescott texted former teammate Rico Dowdle to congratulate him after he rushed for a career-high 206 yards last Sunday in his first start for the #Panthers. pic.twitter.com/0ZVJc0USh4

— Ed Werder (@WerderEdNFL) October 10, 2025

The upcoming game is more than just a regular-season matchup; it represents a chance for Dowdle to prove himself against the team that let him go. His motivation to perform will be high, knowing he has something to prove. Meanwhile, Prescott will need to rally his teammates to prevent any complacency as they aim to extend their dominance over the Panthers.

Dec 9, 2024; Arlington, Texas, USA; Dallas Cowboys running back Rico Dowdle (23) walks on the field before a game against the Cincinnati Bengals at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Tim Heitman-Imagn Images

The dynamic between Prescott and Dowdle highlights the personal connections that exist within the NFL. As both players prepare for their respective roles in the game, their mutual respect sets the stage for an exciting matchup.

Dec 22, 2024; Arlington, Texas, USA; Dallas Cowboys running back Rico Dowdle (23) stands on the field before the game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Tim Heitman-Imagn Images

This article first appeared on Gridiron Heroics and was syndicated with permission.

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