Since the Indianapolis Colts traded running back Nyheim Hines, they have been searching for the answer to what the backfield will look like beyond Jonathan Taylor.
Taylor’s junior season was riddled with injuries and a struggling offensive line, making his quest for leading the league in rushing again futile. It highlighted how much the Colts need more options that can produce to provide relief for Taylor and a balanced rushing attack.
They made a move to help aid some of that depth by signing free-agent Darrynton Evans.
With this in mind, Indy’s running back depth chart is as follows:
RB1: Jonathan Taylor
RB2: Zack Moss
RB3: Deon Jackson
Backups competing for a roster spot: Jake Funk, Aaron Shampklin, Darrynton Evans
Signing Evans is likely a pure competition, formidable depth, and skillset move for general manager Chris Ballard. Having enough healthy players is always a priority, and if those players have additional skills, such as special teams experience, that dramatically helps the team.
Right now, it’s doubtful Evans overtakes Moss as the backup to Jonathan Taylor, but he could push Deon Jackson for the third running back spot. The key with Evans will be his health and his production.
Since being drafted in 2020, he’s only played 12 games. In those games, he had 30 carries for 125 yards.
Keep up to date with the latest news, signings and rumors through our free agency tracker for the Colts.
