The Indianapolis Colts have a solid trio of running backs leading their backfield so the position is not high on the priority list entering the month of April. But there is still a chance they are looking to add some depth to the room.
While this most certainly could come in the form of a draft pick at the end of the month, the Colts could also look to sign a veteran running back to fill out the back end of the room and provide some depth behind starter Marlon Mack and early-down backup Jordan Wilkins.
This isn’t to say the Colts have to do this or that Mack isn’t the guy for the job, but more to look at the top options on the market in case a veteran is wanted for the role.
Here are three veteran free agent running backs the Colts could consider:
Devonta Freeman | Age: 28
It’s been a rough few seasons for Freeman since he signed that contract extension with the Atlanta Falcons following the 2016 season. He was released this offseason due to a few factors—his salary and recent production being at the forefront.
But the Colts wouldn’t need Freeman to carry the load at all. He would work as a depth piece and veteran in the backfield who has experience between the tackles and catching passes. What his price looks like isn’t clear but the Colts have plenty of cap space for a cheap one-year deal.
The former fourth-round pick is coming off of a rough season in which he averaged 3.6 yards per carry. His best days are clearly behind him, but bringing him on for depth purposes might not be a bad idea depending on the price.
Lamar Miller | Age: 28
After tearing his ACL before the 2019 season, Miller’s campaign was over before it started. At the end of a four-year contract with the Houston Texans, Miller is now a free agent following their acquisition of David Johnson.
Miller has been an efficient running back throughout his career, averaging 4.3 yards per carry. He’s never been spectacular or game-breaking with only two 1,000-yard seasons, and he’s middling when it comes to elusiveness. But he’s solid through contact and could provide a veteran presence in a young backfield.
Depending on how his medicals check out, Miller would be a fine option for cheap.
Jonathan Williams | Age: 26
A reunion could be in order for the Colts and Williams. The Colts have always said how much they like Williams as a depth piece in the backfield, and he showed why in 2019.
Getting some major play in two games while Marlon Mack dealt with a fractured hand, Williams took 39 carries for 220 yards and a touchdown in Weeks 10 and 11. He has proven to be a strong depth piece in the running back room and while the Colts might be looking to bring in a rookie, Williams is still a solid option.
Currently a free agent, the Colts decided against bringing him back during the early portion of free agency, but Williams is always an option the Colts can consider.
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