Running Back Sleepers: Why Rico Dowdle is Your Late-Round Target
Sportsgrid Staff
Host · Writer
When it comes to drafting in fantasy football, finding value in the later rounds can often be the key to building a championship roster. This year, one name that should be on your radar is Rico Dowdle, a running back who could offer significant upside at a minimal cost. Let’s break down why Dowdle is a player you should be targeting and how he compares to the more well-known Ezekiel Elliott.
Impact of Climate on NFL Players’ Performance & Health
Rico Dowdle: A Potential Breakout Star
Rico Dowdle is emerging as a sleeper pick in fantasy drafts, and for good reason. The early buzz from Cowboys’ training camp has been overwhelmingly positive, with beat reporters highlighting his impressive performances. Dowdle is being positioned as a player who could take on a larger role in the Dallas Cowboys backfield, especially as the season progresses.
Dowdle’s current ADP (Average Draft Position) places him behind Ezekiel Elliott, making him a low-risk, high-reward pick. If you’re looking for a value bet, consider Dowdle’s odds for total rushing yards or touchdowns over the course of the season. With the potential to see increased touches, Dowdle could easily outperform his ADP, making him a savvy pick for both fantasy players and bettors.
Ezekiel Elliott: The Veteran Presence
Ezekiel Elliott, on the other hand, is a more familiar name but comes with his own set of risks. Elliott has been a consistent performer in the past, but as he returns to the Cowboys this season, questions remain about his role and effectiveness. Elliott is still likely to see goal-line work and could rack up some early-season touchdowns, but his long-term value is less certain.
Elliott’s touchdown prop might be a safer bet in the first few weeks of the season, especially in goal-line situations. However, as the season progresses, there’s a good chance Dowdle could eat into Elliott’s workload, making Elliott a potentially risky pick for the full season.
Why Rico Dowdle Is the Better Late-Round Pick
In fantasy football, value is everything, and Rico Dowdle offers a lot of it. He’s currently being drafted around the 43rd running back off the board, compared to Elliott’s 40th position. This slight difference in ADP could be your opportunity to grab a player with significant upside at a fraction of the cost.
In casual fantasy leagues, many players may overlook Dowdle in favor of the more recognizable Elliott. This gives savvy managers the chance to scoop up Dowdle in the later rounds and potentially land a player who could outperform his draft position. Betting on Dowdle to surpass his projected season totals could also be a profitable move if he takes over a larger share of the backfield duties.
Strategy Tip: How to Draft Smartly
One strategy to consider is waiting for someone else in your draft to select Ezekiel Elliott, then immediately grabbing Rico Dowdle in the next round. This approach allows you to capitalize on Dowdle’s potential at a lower cost, giving you a strong chance to secure better value for your roster.
If you’re in a league with more casual players, this strategy could be particularly effective. Many will see Elliott’s name and select him based on past performance, overlooking Dowdle’s potential. This opens the door for you to make a smart, calculated pick that could pay dividends as the season unfolds.
Avoid Drafting Brock Purdy Early in Fantasy Football
Final Thoughts: Why Rico Dowdle Is Worth the Gamble
While Ezekiel Elliott offers a familiar name and early-season potential, Rico Dowdle is the player who could provide the most value in the long run. His low cost and high upside make him a perfect late-round target in fantasy drafts, and his potential to outshine Elliott as the season progresses should not be overlooked.
Betting Recap:
- Consider betting on Rico Dowdle to surpass his season totals for rushing yards and touchdowns.
- Ezekiel Elliott’s touchdown prop may be safe early in the season, but his long-term value is questionable.
- Drafting Dowdle after Elliott in your fantasy leagues could give you a significant edge.
By keeping an eye on the Cowboys’ backfield situation and understanding the value that Rico Dowdle offers, you can make smarter draft decisions and potentially capitalize on some favorable betting opportunities this NFL season.
Stay ahead of the game and elevate your sports betting experience with SportsGrid.
