Rico Dowdle Likely to Miss Steelers Game Against Colts

Pittsburgh Steelers running back Rico Dowdle is unlikely to play against the Indianapolis Colts in Week 5 because of a foot injury, according to ESPN's Adam Schefter. Dowdle's expected absence will give Jaylen Warren another opportunity to handle the lead running back responsibilities as the Steelers avoid rushing Dowdle's recovery.

According to Schefter, Dowdle participated in three limited practices during the week before the team listed him as questionable for the matchup. Despite his participation in practice, the running back is expected to sit out the game to reduce the risk of aggravating the injury.

The Steelers do not want to bring Dowdle back before his foot has sufficiently recovered. Schefter reported that the team expects the running back could return in Week 6, although his availability will depend on his recovery.

With Dowdle likely sidelined, Warren is positioned to receive another week of an expanded workload. According to Schefter's report, the situation places Warren among the team's primary running back options for the Week 5 contest against Indianapolis.

Dowdle's absence would extend Warren's opportunity to lead the Steelers' rushing attack for another game while the team manages its injured running back's return. The anticipated Week 6 comeback would give Dowdle an additional week to recover from the foot problem.