Cowboys Make RB Signing to Begin Free Agency Week 2

The Dallas Cowboys' lack of significant outside additions has angered many during the start of free agency. And heading into the second week of negotiations, there's not many big names left to even add, leaving Dallas to sort through the leftovers.

There were few signings on Monday, but the 'Boys ended up getting in on the action.

Cowboys running back Rico Dowdle is re-signing with the team, according to his agency, SportsTrust Advisors.

Dowdle was a surprise contributor in Dallas last season. While he entered Week 1 as behind both Tony Pollard and rookie Deuce Vaugh, the latter's struggles through the first five games paved the way for Dowdle to take on a heightened role.

The South Carolina product rose to RB2 and never gave up the opportunity, going on to post career highs in attempts (89), yards (361) and touchdowns (2) on the ground. He added another 17 receptions, 144 yards and 2 TDs through the air.

Dowdle's 4.1 yards per carry was nothing special, but he's a physical runner capable of coming through in short-yardage situations. He also flashed some bigger potential in Week 10, when he went off for 79 rushing yards (on just 12 carries) and a TD against the New York Giants.

Dowdle now rejoins the Cowboys' RB room as possibly the top back at the moment with Vaughn and the incumbent Malik Davis around as well.

Considering Dallas has balked at paying Pollard or even lower-tier running backs like Devin Singletary this offseason, that shows the team is likely planning to address the position in the draft. This year's class isn't as stacked as last year's, but local talent and Texas Longhorns standout Jonathon Brooks -- a projected second-round pick -- leads the possible options for Jerry Jones' team.

Even if Dallas does sign another veteran or spends a top selection on an RB, Dowdle is still a nice complement to have considering his bruising running style.

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