New England Patriots Dowling was selected with the first pick of the second round (33rd overall) by the
New England Patriots in the
2011 NFL draft. Dowling played two games for the Patriots in the 2011 season before injuring his hip in Week 2 against San Diego. On October 29, 2011, the Patriots placed him on Injured Reserve, ending his 2011 season. On October 26, 2012, Dowling was placed on
injured reserve with a torn thigh muscle, ending his 2012 season. On August 28, 2013, the Patriots released Dowling as part of their roster cutdown to 75 players.
New York Jets The
New York Jets signed Dowling to the practice squad on October 23, 2013. He was released on August 24, 2014.
Oakland Raiders On September 1, 2014, Dowling was signed to the Raiders' practice squad. On December 13, 2014, the
Oakland Raiders signed Dowling to the active roster. On September 1, 2015, he was released by the Raiders.
Carolina Panthers On November 23, 2015, Dowling was signed to the
Carolina Panthers' practice squad. On February 7, 2016, Dowling's Panthers played in
Super Bowl 50. In the game, the Panthers fell to the
Denver Broncos by a score of 24–10. ==Coaching career==