Steelers’ Rico Dowdle nearing Week 6 return vs. Buccaneers to join red-hot Jaylen Warren appeared first on ClutchPoints. Add ClutchPoints as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
The Pittsburgh Steelers could soon have another weapon back in their backfield, as Rico Dowdle appears to be nearing a return ahead of Sunday’s matchup against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
Dowdle was a full participant in practice for the first time in a while, offering encouraging news for a Pittsburgh offense that could use another reliable running back. The veteran has been sidelined with a toe injury, but his recent progress puts him in position to potentially return in Week 7.
Dowdle joined the Steelers after an impressive 2025 season with the Carolina Panthers, where he showed he could be a productive running back when given a meaningful workload. Fantasy football managers who relied on him last season know what he can bring to an offense, and Pittsburgh was hoping he could provide similar production after signing with the team.
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However, Dowdle’s injury has given Jaylen Warren an opportunity to take control of the backfield, and he has made the most of it. Warren has been red-hot recently, delivering consistent production and establishing himself as one of Pittsburgh’s most important offensive weapons. His recent performances have made it difficult to imagine the Steelers significantly reducing his workload, even when Dowdle returns.
That does not mean Dowdle cannot play an important role. The veteran has shown that he can handle a larger workload when needed, and his presence would give Pittsburgh another experienced option to rotate into the backfield. Having two capable running backs could also help keep Warren fresh as the Steelers navigate the rest of their schedule.
Dowdle will likely have to work his way back into the rotation, especially with Warren playing so well. Still, Pittsburgh could benefit from having both players available against Tampa Bay.
Warren has taken advantage of his opportunity while Dowdle has been sidelined. If Dowdle can return soon, Pittsburgh could have a stronger backfield combination to help its offense moving forward.
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