The Carolina Panthers have just made headlines, but not for a trade this time. No doubt running back Rico Dowdle has completely uplifted the franchise’s spirits with his phenomenal performances. But on Chuba Hubbard’s side, things have become tougher as the franchise has made some changes in his role. It’s something that may impact his future in the backfield.

According to Carolina’s beat writer, Sheena Quick, the team has officially listed Rico as RB1 on their latest depth chart. Meanwhile, they assigned Hubbard to the kickoff return unit. This move isn’t only a big change in the Panthers’ offensive setup, but it also shows their stance on where they see Chuba currently. 

Quick’s tweet reveals that the player’s return after sustaining a calf strain doesn’t guarantee him his old spot back. In fact, Carolina is likely prioritizing consistency and current performance over seniority. And honestly, Dowdle’s performance in the past few games has spoken for itself and justifies why he should stay in charge of the backfield. 

Against the New York Jets, he totaled 79 yards on 17 carries, while Hubbard could only record 31 yards. Then, in Carolina’s humiliating 40-9 loss to the Bills, Rico utilized his limited touches and posted 54 yards on eight attempts. Most recently, the player stole the show by exploding for 130 yards and two touchdowns in a 16-13 win over Green Bay. 

Moreover, his big run in the crucial last minute helped kicker Ryan Fitzgerald score a game-winning 49-yard field goal. With the way Dowdle is rocking the field, the RBI debate between him and Chuba won’t die down anytime soon. But from Carolina’s perspective, Rico has stepped up big time in Hubbard’s absence and even after his return. But while the ex-Dallas RB enjoys his breakout moment, the NFL is not sparing him. 

Rico risks Chuba Hubbard’s spot but draws a penalty

Rico Dowdle’s big day against the Packers came at a hefty cost. After scoring his fourth TD of the season after rushing for a yard, the running back couldn’t help but celebrate boldly. He swung his hips and struck a playful pose, hands behind his helmet, channeling the iconic move by Hingle McCringleberry from the classic Key & Peele sketch.

It is a parody of footballers who celebrate touchdowns in over-the-top ways. While it was in good fun for Rico and his teammates, it didn’t sit well with the crowd at the Lambeau Field stadium. They started booing, and soon the officials threw flags, ruling the dance “excessive” under the NFL’s unsportsmanlike conduct rule. 

The penalty cost the franchise 15 yards, leading Fitzgerald to miss extra points. For those who don’t know, the league has been closely watching for inappropriate or NSFW celebrations for the past few seasons. As per the NFL rulebook, unsportsmanlike conduct like that of Rico carries a $14,491 fine for a first offense. 

Moreover, the fine could increase to over $20,000 for repeat violations. It is undoubtedly a big blow to Dowdle’s game-day earnings despite handing over the victory to his team. Nevertheless, his fiery momentum is what has lifted the Panthers to a 5-4 record in the NFC South. The rhythm Rico has found may overshadow Chuba Hubbard in the upcoming games.