There will be plenty of competition for the RB2 role with the Dallas Cowboys in 2023.

One of the candidates, Rico Dowdle, was signed to a one-year deal earlier this week. After some strategic contractual maneuvering by the Cowboys with the deals of left tackle Tyron Smith, linebacker Leighton Vander Esch, and wide receiver Brandin Cooks, they did it again with Dowdle's agreement. 

Dowdle was eligible for a restricted free-agent tender that would have cost the Cowboys $2.7 million if it was applied. They declined to do so and Dowdle was free to sign with any team. 

The gamble paid off masterfully for the Cowboys as they signed Dowdle to a one-year deal with a $940,000 base salary and a $100,000 signing bonus. Going from nearly a $3 million price tag to under $1 million is some slick stuff by Dallas.

Rico Dowdle contract breakdown: 1 year, $950,000

Signing bonus: $100,000
Base salary: $940,000

If the Cowboys tendered Dowdle as a restricted free agent, it would have cost $2.7 million for the right of first refusal. They made similar move last year with LB Luke Gifford.

— Todd Archer (@toddarcher) March 23, 2023

Dowdle was the third running back in 2020 for the Cowboys after going undrafted. He had just seven carries but logged 201 special teams snaps. 

In 2021, a hip injury in the preseason placed Dowdle on injured reserve, ending his chance to contribute in year two. Last season, he beat out Malik Davis for a roster spot, but was placed on injured reserve again with an ankle injury and only amassed six offensive snaps. 

The Cowboys are high on Dowdle so bringing him back to compete for a roster spot isn't surprising, and they did so in a smart way in terms of business.