Dare Ogunbowale

Oluwadare Ogunbowale Bio

Oluwadare “Dare” Ogunbowale is an American professional football running back who currently plays for the Houston Texans of the National Football League (NFL). Born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Ogunbowale attended the University of Wisconsin where he began his college football career as a walk-on defensive back before transitioning to running back. He accumulated over 2,000 total yards and 15 touchdowns during his collegiate career and was named team captain in his senior season. Ogunbowale entered the NFL as an undrafted free agent with the Houston Texans in 2017 and has since built a durable NFL career spanning multiple teams. Known for his versatility and reliability on special teams, Ogunbowale has emerged as a valued depth player and situational weapon throughout his professional journey.

Early Life and Background

Oluwadare Ogunbowale was born on May 4, 1994, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, to an American mother and a Nigerian father. He grew up in Milwaukee where he attended Marquette University High School. During his time at Marquette, Ogunbowale distinguished himself as a four-sport athlete, competing in football, soccer, basketball, and track and field. His exceptional athletic versatility and work ethic laid the foundation for his future football career at the collegiate level.

Coming from a family with immigrant roots, Ogunbowale’s upbringing was shaped by diverse cultural influences. His younger sister, Arike Ogunbowale, would go on to become a professional basketball player for the Dallas Wings of the WNBA, continuing the family’s tradition of athletic excellence. This background contributed to Ogunbowale’s well-rounded skill set and adaptability across different sports disciplines.

Path to American Football

Ogunbowale’s path to becoming a professional football player began at Marquette University High School in Milwaukee, where he excelled as a multi-sport athlete. His standout performances on the football field attracted attention from college programs, ultimately leading him to walk on at the University of Wisconsin. Initially joining the Badgers as a cornerback, Ogunbowale’s collegiate trajectory shifted dramatically when coaches recognized his potential on the offensive side of the ball.

The transition from defense to offense proved transformative for Ogunbowale’s career. He embraced the change and worked diligently to develop his running back skills. Over the course of his Wisconsin career from 2012 to 2016, Ogunbowale rack up more than 2,000 total yards and 15 touchdowns, demonstrating his ability to contribute both as a rusher and receiver. His dedication and performance earned him the respect of coaches and teammates, culminating in his selection as a team captain for his senior season.

During his college career, Ogunbowale experienced a memorable moment when Sports Illustrated featured him in a story following a game against Nebraska in 2014. Interestingly, the magazine editors mistakenly used a photograph of Ogunbowale when intending to feature his teammate Melvin Gordon, adding an unexpected chapter to his collegiate journey. This experience highlighted his presence on a talented Wisconsin team that included future NFL players.

Oluwadare Ogunbowale Career

Early NFL Career (2017–2019)

Ogunbowale entered the NFL as an undrafted free agent, signing with the Houston Texans on May 16, 2017. His rookie campaign involved significant roster movement, as he was waived by the Texans during final roster cuts before joining their practice squad. After a brief stint with Houston, Ogunbowale was signed to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers practice squad in November 2017. He continued to bounce between practice squads and active rosters, eventually joining the Washington Redskins organization where he was promoted to the active roster in December 2017.

The 2018 season marked Ogunbowale’s first full NFL campaign with Tampa Bay. He signed with the Buccaneers in August 2018 and experienced the familiar pattern of practice squad assignments and promotions that characterized his early professional career. By the 2019 season, Ogunbowale had established himself as a more consistent contributor for Tampa Bay, appearing in multiple games and showcasing his versatility as both a rusher and receiver. His 35 receptions for 286 receiving yards during the 2019 season demonstrated his reliability as a pass-catching option out of the backfield.

Jacksonville Jaguars Era (2020–2021)

In September 2020, Ogunbowale signed with the Jacksonville Jaguars, marking a new chapter in his career. He joined a young Jaguars team rebuilding under new leadership and quickly earned a significant role. Ogunbowale started the final two games of the 2020 season, demonstrating his ability to handle an expanded workload when called upon. He finished the 2020 season with 145 rushing yards on 32 carries, showing steady production as a between-the-tackles runner.

The 2021 season saw Ogunbowale continue his contributions in Jacksonville. He appeared in all 17 games and maintained consistent offensive production, recording 137 rushing yards and one rushing touchdown to go along with 13 receptions for 114 receiving yards and one receiving touchdown. His ability to contribute in multiple facets of the game made him a valuable member of the Jaguars roster during a transitional period for the franchise.

Houston Texans Return (2022–Present)

On March 23, 2022, Ogunbowale returned to the Houston Texans, signing a two-year contract worth $3.3 million. This homecoming marked a significant milestone, as Ogunbowale began his NFL journey with the same franchise that initially signed him as an undrafted free agent in 2017. His experience and versatility provided valuable depth for a Texans team in the midst of a roster rebuild.

The 2023 season delivered one of the most memorable moments of Ogunbowale’s career. During a Week 10 game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on November 5, 2023, Ogunbowale was pressed into emergency duty as the team’s placekicker after starting kicker Ka’imi Fairbairn suffered an injury. In the fourth quarter, Ogunbowale successfully made a field goal, becoming the first non-kicker to convert a field goal in a regular season game since Wes Welker accomplished the feat in 2004. The Texans won the game 39-37, and Ogunbowale’s unexpected contribution cemented his place in NFL history.

Throughout the 2024 season, Ogunbowale continued to serve as a reliable depth player and special teams contributor for Houston. He delivered a game-winning touchdown in Week 4 against his former team, the Jacksonville Jaguars, helping the Texans secure a 24-20 victory. Ogunbowale finished the 2024 season with 30 carries for 112 rushing yards and 19 receptions for 198 receiving yards with one receiving touchdown. On April 22, 2024, the Texans re-signed him, demonstrating the organization’s confidence in his value to the team.

On March 5, 2025, Ogunbowale re-signed with the Texans on a one-year contract worth $2 million. He appeared in all 17 games during the season, with the majority of his contributions coming on special teams. His consistency, professionalism, and ability to play multiple positions have made him a respected veteran presence in the Texans locker room.

Playing Style and Strengths

Ogunbowale is known for his versatility and reliability as an NFL player. His experience playing multiple positions, including cornerback in college, has contributed to his football intelligence and situational awareness. As a running back, he displays patient running style with adequate vision to find creases in the offensive line. His contributions as a receiver out of the backfield have been a consistent element throughout his career, with over 100 receptions in the NFL. His most unique asset remains his kicking ability, demonstrated by his historic field goal conversion during the 2023 season.

Notable Events and Milestones

The defining moment of Ogunbowale’s career came on November 5, 2023, when he stepped in as an emergency kicker for the Houston Texans. Making a field goal as a non-kicker in a regular season game was a rare achievement that hadn’t occurred since 2004. The dramatic victory over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, 39-37, showcased his adaptability under pressure. Beyond this historic kick, Ogunbowale has maintained steady production across eight NFL seasons with four different franchises, a testament to his durability and value as a depth player in the league.

Oluwadare Ogunbowale Career Statistics

Throughout his NFL career spanning from 2017 to 2025, Ogunbowale has appeared in over 80 games while playing for the Houston Texans, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Washington Commanders, and Jacksonville Jaguars. His receiving statistics highlight his value as a pass-catching back, while his rushing numbers demonstrate consistent short-yardage production. His unique ability to contribute on special teams and in emergency situations sets him apart from typical depth players at the running back position.

NFL Career Highlights

Ogunbowale’s most celebrated NFL achievement remains his field goal conversion during the 2023 season, a feat that earned him recognition across the league. Throughout his career, he has demonstrated reliability as a third-down back and situational player, amassing 591 rushing yards and 850 receiving yards across regular season play. His 2024 season performance, including the game-winning touchdown against Jacksonville, demonstrated his continued ability to deliver in critical moments despite primarily serving in a special teams role.

Career Bests and Additional Notes

Among his notable statistical achievements, Ogunbowale’s receiving production stands out, with 109 career receptions for 850 yards and 2 touchdowns through the 2025 season. His single field goal made during the 2023 season remains one of the most memorable plays in recent NFL history. He has consistently demonstrated the ability to remain available, appearing in all 17 games during the 2025 season. His career path from undrafted walk-on to eight-year NFL veteran exemplifies persistence and adaptability in professional football.

Oluwadare Ogunbowale Family

Family Background and Heritage

Ogunbowale was born and raised in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, to an American mother and a Nigerian father who immigrated to the United States. This multicultural background has been an important part of his identity throughout his life and career. His father’s immigrant experience and his mother’s American roots provided Ogunbowale with diverse perspectives that shaped his approach to athletics and academics. The family’s journey reflects the immigrant experience common in American sports, with parents often making significant sacrifices to provide opportunities for their children.

Personal Life

Ogunbowale’s younger sister, Arike Ogunbowale, has achieved notable success in basketball, playing professionally for the Dallas Wings in the WNBA. The siblings share a competitive athletic drive, though they pursued different sports paths. Their family dynamic reflects a tradition of athletic excellence, with both siblings reaching the professional level in their respective sports. Ogunbowale maintains a relatively private personal life while continuing to serve as a role model for young athletes in the Milwaukee community where he grew up.

2025 Season Performance

The 2025 season marked another year of steady contribution for Ogunbowale with the Houston Texans. Returning on a one-year contract worth $2 million, he appeared in all 17 games of the regular season. While his offensive touches were limited compared to his earlier career years, Ogunbowale’s value continued to manifest through his special teams excellence and veteran leadership in the locker room.

Throughout the season, Ogunbowale served primarily as a special teams contributor, a role that speaks to his versatility and willingness to accept whatever role benefits the team. His professionalism and consistent work ethic made him a reliable presence on special teams units. The Texans coaching staff valued his experience and institutional knowledge, drawing on his familiarity with the organization dating back to his initial signing in 2017.

Looking ahead, Ogunbowale’s future with the Texans remains tied to his continued ability to contribute in specific roles. His unique skill set as an emergency kicker, combined with his reliable offensive contributions, gives him value that extends beyond traditional statistics. As Houston continues to build its roster for future competitiveness, Ogunbowale’s veteran presence provides stability and a model of persistence for younger players in the organization. His career trajectory from undrafted free agent to eight-year NFL veteran demonstrates the kind of sustained effort that can carve out a meaningful professional career in the league.