2020 Colts’ position review: Running back

As the offseason begins for the Indianapolis Colts, we will begin a series of positional reviews, taking a look back at the 2020 campaign. We continue here with the running back position.

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2020 Colts' position review: Quarterbacks

Starter: Jonathan Taylor
Backup: Nyheim Hines
Depth: Jordan Wilkins

Position Overview

The Colts entered the offseason with Marlon Mack, Hines and Wilkins. They traded up in the second round of the 2020 draft to select Taylor with the No. 41 overall pick. Mack wound up tearing his Achilles in the first half of Week 1, leading the Colts to lean on the rookie in Taylor for the starting role.

Hines and Wilkins were mixed in, but Taylor eventually took over the backfield as its starter.

Rookie of the Year?

Though Taylor had a three-game rut coming out of the bye week, he exploded during the second half. From Weeks 11-17, Taylor was second in the NFL in rushing yards and wound up leading all rookies in yards while being tied for the rookie lead with 11 rushing touchdowns. He also caught 36 of 39 passes, showing he was active in the passing game as well.

When it was all said and done, Taylor proved the draft pick was worth it. He did so well that he’s a candidate for the Rookie of the Year award. It may be hard to beat out Justin Jefferson, who broke the rookie receiving yards record, but Taylor is at least in the running.

What to do with Mack

The aforementioned Mack will be a free agent when the new league year arrives in March and it seems the Colts are letting him hit the market. There’s always a chance he returns on a cheap, one-year deal if he doesn’t get many offers, but it is likely that he played his last snap with the Colts.

Offseason Outlook

Regardless of what happens with Mack, the Colts are set in the backfield. They have their starter in Taylor and their do-it-all weapon in Hines. Wilkins has provided solid depth and there doesn’t seem to be a reason for major changes to come to the backfield.

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