Shane Steichen’s offensive philosophy is simple. He wants to “throw to score points and run to win”. With this mindset, the Indianapolis Colts must ensure that their backup running back is set behind their star, Jonathan Taylor. Going into Indy’s first preseason game against the Denver Broncos, Trey Sermon appeared to be the favorite to get the backup role. Unfortunately, during Sunday’s game, Sermon injured his hamstring. He was sidelined for the remainder of the game. To make matters worse, he also did not participate in Wednesday’s joint practice. With no timetable on when Sermon will return, this opens the door for a couple of running backs who are looking to earn that backup role on this Colts roster.
Who Has The Edge As Being The Colts Backup Running Back?
Tyler Goodson
Tyler Goodson is entering his second year in the league as a backup running back. Last season, as a rookie, he appeared in six games with one start. He finished with 13 attempts for 87 yards and four first downs. He also was impactful in the passing game and finished with six receptions for 34 yards. Goodson did not record a touchdown and is unfortunately remembered as being the running back who ruined the Colts’ chances to go to the playoffs last year.
During week 18 against the Houston Texans, Goodson dropped a wide open pass from Gardner Minshew on a fourth down play. This essentially ended the game and left Goodson feeling like a “failure”. Since then, however, he has managed to put those demons behind him and work very hard to prove that he is, indeed, not a failure, but rather a playmaker who can contribute to the Colts backfield.
During Sunday’s game, Goodson came in for the injured Trey Sermon and carried it seven times for 15 yards. His longest rush was for 10 yards, which is important to note. Take that 10 yard rush into account, Goodson therefore only managed five yards on the other six rushes. As a whole, the run blocking was less than stellar, as the team managed 2.8 yards per carry on the day. The Colts play the Arizona Cardinals on Saturday, and it will be interesting to see how Goodson fairs in that contest.
Evan Hull
Evan Hull is entering his second year in the league as well but does not have anywhere near as much experience as Goodson. Unfortunately, during week one in 2023, Hull suffered a torn meniscus that ended his season. He did manage to have one rushing attempt for one yard, but his abilities in the NFL are still a mystery. On Sunday, Hull ran the ball eight times for 16 yards and caught one pass for 15 yards. In college at Northwestern, Hull was effective in the run game, pass game, and on special teams. These traits are what make him such an intriguing running back and one who could have a breakout year.
During Wednesday’s joint practice, Hull received the majority of snaps, ahead of Goodson. Although, Hull has mystery and is yet to prove what he can do in a regular season game, he has more versatility than Goodson does as an efficient triple-threat playmaker. In recent years, the Colts have utilized the backup running back as a versatile playmaker. Therefore, Evan Hull has the edge at earning the backup running back role for the Colts.
