Dylan Sampson vs Rico Dowdle: Who Should You Start?
There is a real production gap between these two running backs. Rico Dowdle (Pittsburgh Steelers) averaged 11.6 PPG over 17 games in 2025, outscoring Dylan Sampson (Cleveland Browns, 4.7 PPG) by 6.9 points per week. That separation would need a significant matchup swing to overcome.
That 6.9-point weekly advantage for Rico Dowdle is meaningful but not automatic. Fantasy football is a week-to-week sport, and the answer to "who should I start" often changes based on opponent, recent form, and game environment. Season averages set the baseline; weekly context makes the call.
Both profile as early-down workhorses. Dylan Sampson ran for 175 yards and undefined 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.
One scheduling note: Dylan Sampson is off Week 10 and Rico Dowdle Week 9. If these two are on your roster, you will need a fill-in running back for both weeks. DraftCall flags bye conflicts so you can plan ahead rather than panic on waivers.
