Dallas Cowboys running back Rico Dowdle (23) reacts after making a juggling catch for a touchdown against the Atlanta Falcons during the first half at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Dale Zanine-Imagn Images

If Rico Dowdle played for Woody Johnson, he would be getting extended today

Originally posted on Dallas Cowboys on SI
By Randy Gurzi | Last updated Dec 21, 2024 9:57 AM ET

Rico Dowdle has blossomed into a star for the Dallas Cowboys over the past several weeks. He's recorded more than 100 yards in three consecutive games, including 149 in their Week 15 win over the Carolina Panthers.

That gives him 880 yards on the season as he threatens to hit 1,000 yards. His performance has given the offense new life and caught the attention of the ratings czars at EA Sports.

With their latest update, Dowdle's Madden rating has increased to 81 overall.

Rico Dowdle raised his @EAMaddenNFL ratings after his third consecutive 100 yard game and career high in single game rushing yards (149).

(: EAMaddenNFL on IG) #ProBowlVote pic.twitter.com/L4CAUODjL3
— Brandon Loree (@Brandoniswrite) December 21, 2024

As we learned earlier this week, New York Jets owner Woody Johnson is a fan of Madden ratings. He reportedly steered clear of Jerry Jeudy since his rating wasn't high enough, which is the first time Dallas fans were able to say — that's worse than Jerry Jones. On the flip side, Johnson might be ready to throw a boatload of cash at Dowdle following his increase.

All joking aside, Dowdle will be a free agent in 2025. The Cowboys need to add more depth to the backfield with Dowdle proving to be their only decent option.

Re-signing him makes sense even with a rookie addition but the only question will be whether or not he priced himself out of the range Jones is willing to pay. We learned this past offseason that his range for the position is shockingly low, so hopefully that doesn't lead to Dowdle leaving.

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This article first appeared on Dallas Cowboys on SI and was syndicated with permission.

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