🏈 From Rocket to Panther, A.C. Reynolds graduate and NFL running back Rico Dowdle returned to his old stomping grounds this summer as a mentor and inspiration to the next generation of players.
Dowdle hosted a youth football camp at Reynolds High, leading dozens of young athletes through drills, races, and 7-on-7 action on the same field where he first chased his own dreams.
“It’s just great to be back here where it all started for me,” he said. “I figured out I better take my dreams seriously here, and now I’m back playing for the home team.”
Now signed with the Carolina Panthers after five seasons in Dallas, Dowdle hasn’t forgotten the coaches, teammates, and lessons that shaped him. His former coach, Shane Laws, was quick to point out that Rico’s success isn’t just about football.
“I’m proud of him for being in the NFL,” Laws said. “But I’m even prouder of who he is off the field- a great father, a college graduate with two degrees, and just a really solid man.”
Throughout the day, Dowdle emphasized values like hard work, perseverance, and character, telling campers that success isn’t about luck. It’s about what you put into it.
“Talent’s not enough anymore,” he told the group. “You’ve got to outwork people. That goes for football, and that goes for life.”