The Pittsburgh Steelers received some encouraging news regarding running back Rico Dowdle after he suffered a toe injury during Sunday’s loss to the New England Patriots. After being carted to the locker room, Dowdle underwent further testing and has avoided what could have been a significant injury. NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport reports that Dowdle is considered day-to-day heading into Week 3.

That gives the Steelers a much better outlook heading into their AFC North matchup with the Cincinnati Bengals, although Dowdle’s practice participation will be important to monitor throughout the week.

Dowdle’s tests come back relatively OK

Sep 13, 2026; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers running back Rico Dowdle (13) runs against Atlanta Falcons linebacker Harold Perkins Jr. (56) during the third quarter at Acrisure Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-Imagn Images

Dowdle suffered the toe injury in the second quarter against New England and was initially taken to the locker room on a cart. He was able to return to the game after halftime but ultimately did not finish the contest.

The veteran running back finished the 20-3 loss with seven carries for 22 yards and two receptions for 22 yards.

Rapoport provided the encouraging update Tuesday, reporting that Dowdle “checked out relatively OK” following the additional testing and is considered day-to-day. While that does not guarantee he will play Sunday, it indicates the Steelers are not currently dealing with an injury expected to sideline him for an extended period.

Steelers still need to monitor his status

Aug 03, 2026; Latrobe, PA, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Aaron Rodgers (8) hands the ball off to running back Rico Dowdle (13) runs during a practice session at Training camp at Saint Vincent College. Mandatory Credit: Barry Reeger-Imagn Images

Dowdle has split Pittsburgh’s backfield workload with Jaylen Warren through the first two games of the season. The Steelers signed Dowdle during the offseason after he produced a career-best 1,076 rushing yards and six touchdowns for the Carolina Panthers in 2025.

Through two games with Pittsburgh, Dowdle has recorded 15 carries for 37 yards along with four receptions for 28 yards.

If Dowdle is unable to practice fully or ultimately misses Sunday’s game against Cincinnati, Warren would likely be in line for a significantly larger workload. The Steelers also have Travis Homer and Eli Heidenreich available as additional options in the backfield.

For now, however, the Steelers can breathe a little easier. Dowdle’s day-to-day designation is considerably more encouraging than the initial scene suggested when he was carted away Sunday.

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