Audric Estime vs Rico Dowdle: Who Should You Start?
Deciding between Audric Estime and Rico Dowdle is a common lineup dilemma for fantasy managers. The New Orleans Saints running back put up 6.0 PPG in 2025 over 7 games; Rico Dowdle of the Pittsburgh Steelers averaged 11.6 in 17. A 5.6-point margin that could shift on any given week.
The per-game difference of 5.6 points favors Rico Dowdle, though savvy managers know that gap can shrink or widen depending on the weekly slate. Defensive matchup, recent scoring trends, and health status all shift the calculus from one running back to the other.
Both profile as early-down workhorses. Audric Estime ran for 198 yards and 1 touchdowns; Rico Dowdle posted 1076 and 6. Goal-line share, red zone touches, and which team is favored are usually the tiebreaker when neither back offers passing-game volume.
Bye weeks matter for roster construction: Audric Estime sits Week 12 while Rico Dowdle is off Week 9. If you are deciding between the two as a season-long roster hold, the staggered byes actually work in your favor.
