Pittsburgh Steelers running back Rico Dowdle is active and expected to play against the New Orleans Saints on Sunday, October 25, 2026, in NFL Week 7 at Stade de France in Paris, France.
Dowdle entered the matchup dealing with a knee injury that placed his availability in question. However, the Steelers running back was reportedly not included on the team’s official inactive list, clearing the way for him to suit up against New Orleans.
While Dowdle is available, his workload could depend on how his knee responds during the game.
Rico Dowdle Injury Status for Week 7
Dowdle was listed as questionable heading into Sunday’s international matchup because of a knee injury.
Here is his reported Week 7 status:
- Player: Rico Dowdle
- Team: Pittsburgh Steelers
- Position: Running Back
- Opponent: New Orleans Saints
- Date: Sunday, October 25, 2026
- Injury: Knee
- Game Status: Active
- Expected Availability: Playing
Although Dowdle is expected to participate, being active does not necessarily guarantee a full workload.
Will Rico Dowdle Start Against the Saints?
Dowdle’s availability gives Pittsburgh another option in its backfield, but Jaylen Warren remains the stronger fantasy football option entering the matchup.
The Steelers could rotate their running backs depending on game situations, offensive strategy, and Dowdle’s health.
Dowdle could contribute as a rotational running back, particularly if Pittsburgh looks to distribute carries throughout the game.
Rico Dowdle Fantasy Football Outlook for Week 7
Fantasy football managers considering starting Dowdle should monitor his potential workload.
Although his active status is encouraging, his knee injury creates some uncertainty surrounding his snap count and rushing opportunities.
Dowdle may offer value in deeper fantasy leagues, but Warren appears to be the safer starting option for managers seeking more predictable opportunities.
Fantasy managers should consider their league’s scoring format and available alternatives before inserting Dowdle into their starting lineups.
What Time Is Steelers vs. Saints Today?
The Pittsburgh Steelers face the New Orleans Saints in an international NFL Week 7 matchup in Paris.
Game Information
- Matchup: Pittsburgh Steelers vs. New Orleans Saints
- Date: Sunday, October 25, 2026
- Kickoff Time: 9:30 a.m. ET
- Venue: Stade de France
- Location: Paris, France
- TV Channel: NFL Network
The early kickoff means fantasy football managers should finalize their lineup decisions before the usual Sunday afternoon NFL games begin.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Rico Dowdle playing today?
Yes. Rico Dowdle is reportedly active for the Pittsburgh Steelers against the New Orleans Saints on Sunday, October 25, 2026.
Why was Rico Dowdle questionable?
Dowdle was listed as questionable because of a knee injury leading up to Pittsburgh’s Week 7 matchup.
Is Rico Dowdle injured?
Dowdle has been dealing with a knee injury, but he is expected to be available against New Orleans.
Should I start Rico Dowdle in fantasy football?
Dowdle could be an option in deeper fantasy leagues, but his uncertain workload makes him a riskier choice. Jaylen Warren appears to offer a more dependable fantasy outlook.
What time does Rico Dowdle play today?
The Steelers and Saints are scheduled to kick off at 9:30 a.m. ET on Sunday, October 25, 2026.
Final Update: Rico Dowdle Available for Steelers vs. Saints
Rico Dowdle is expected to play against the New Orleans Saints in NFL Week 7, providing the Pittsburgh Steelers with additional running back depth for their international matchup in Paris.
Despite entering the weekend with a questionable designation because of a knee injury, Dowdle is reportedly active for Sunday’s contest.
The biggest question now is how much playing time he will receive and whether Pittsburgh limits his workload.
For more NFL injury reports, player availability updates, fantasy football news, and Week 7 coverage, visit The Sports Cast at thesportscast.net.