4 Cowboys who are primed for breakout seasons in 2024

3. RB Rico Dowdle

Much like Mazi Smith, Rico Dowdle's breakout potential is largely based on his new role. Dowdle showed signs of being a quality starter in the league backing up Tony Pollard in 2023. Now he'll get an even bigger opportunity.

Many speculated that the Cowboys would draft a running back to add depth to the position. However, Dallas had a different idea. They signed an aging Ezekiel Elliott. Elliott brings back a certain type of running that the offense needs, but chances are this is still Dowdle's job to lose.

Last season, Dowdle rushed for 362 yards on 89 carries (4.1 average) and two touchdowns. The former undrafted free agent also caught 17 of his 22 receiving targets for 144 and another two touchdowns.

Dowdle is younger, quicker and was already in place to be the starter prior to Elliott's signing. As a pure runner, Dowdle is shifty and has the strength to muscle for extra yards. He is not the speedster a team would love to have but, he knows how to use his blocks correctly.

Dowdle is a fundamentally-sound running back and will do the right things to be effective. The 26-year-old is primed for a big season.