Colts Evaluate Running Back Position After Free Agency

GM Chris Ballard has work to do to address roster holes, including at running back.

Mar. 22, 2026 at 11:50am

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Following the initial free agency waves, the Indianapolis Colts are reviewing the current state of the running back position. While star RB Jonathan Taylor is still under contract, the Colts may look to add depth and competition behind him in the draft, as the current backups still need development, particularly in pass protection.

Why it matters

The Colts have several roster holes to address after free agency, and the running back position is one area they may look to improve, even though they have their star player Jonathan Taylor locked up long-term. Strengthening the depth behind Taylor could be key to the Colts' offensive success next season.

The details

The Colts have Jonathan Taylor, DJ Giddens, and Ulysses Bentley IV under contract at running back after free agency. Free agent RBs Ameer Abdullah, Tyler Goodson, and Salvon Ahmed remain unsigned. While the need at RB may not be high with Taylor still just 27 years old, the Colts could look to add depth and competition behind him, potentially in the draft, even if it's not an early-round selection.

  • The Colts are currently in the post-free agency period, evaluating their roster needs.

The players

Jonathan Taylor

The Colts' star running back, who is under contract through 2026.

DJ Giddens

A Colts running back who was often inactive last season, still needing to develop parts of his game.

Ulysses Bentley IV

A Colts running back who was on the practice squad last season.

Chris Ballard

The Indianapolis Colts' general manager, who has been active in free agency and has work to do to address roster holes.

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What’s next

The Colts may look to add depth and competition at running back in the upcoming NFL Draft, even if it's not an early-round selection.

The takeaway

While the Colts have their star running back Jonathan Taylor locked up long-term, they may still look to strengthen the depth and competition behind him in the offseason, as they work to address various roster holes following free agency.