The Indianapolis Colts added some depth and competition to the backfield with the signing of free-agent running back Darrynton Evans on Friday.
After the Colts made some more-than-expected noise to open free agency in the middle of March, their moves in that area quieted down a bit as the focus turned to the 2023 NFL draft.
However, they got back into the free-agent market by making an addition to the backfield that should bring out some competition during training camp.
Keep up to date with the latest news, signings and rumors through our free agency tracker for the Colts.
Here’s our instant analysis of the Colts signing the 24-year-old running back:
How he fits in the depth chart
The Colts have a stable backfield led by Jonathan Taylor, who underwent a procedure to repair a nagging ankle injury that forced him to miss essentially seven games during the 2022 season. While some of the rotational spots behind Taylor may favor other backs, the depth chart is wide open in the backfield.
The former third-round pick should be competing for the final spot in the backfield depth chart during spring workouts and training camp, along with a handful of other backs.
Here’s the updated depth chart at running back with Evans included:
| First | Second | Third | Fourth+ |
| Jonathan Taylor | Zack Moss | Deon Jackson | Jake Funk Aaron Shampklin Darrynton Evans |
How this impacts the draft
There was a chance the Colts could spend a Day 3 pick on a running back to add some juice and competition to the backfield. This signing doesn’t necessarily keep them from doing that if they wanted considering the depth in this class, but the running back position is likely the lowest on the priority list when it comes to the draft.
How this impacts free agency
The Colts didn’t come into free agency needing to add depth to the backfield compared to their needs at other positions so this doesn’t change much about the outlook of the position in free agency.
Contract details
Contract details were not immediately disclosed so we’ll update this post when they are made public.
Instant grade
This signing doesn’t mean much in terms of making a massive impact on the depth chart. Evans has speed, explosiveness and a collegiate profile that included some superb production. This is a depth signing for training camp in hopes he can prove to be a solid RB3.
In a word? Middling.
Instant grade: C
