One of the biggest questions entering training camp will be the split in the backfield for the Indianapolis Colts as incumbent starter Marlon Mack now has some talented company.
While there is a lot of hype and optimism surrounding the prospects of second-round pick Jonathan Taylor, there is a world where Mack retains his role as the lead back—albeit in a lesser capacity than 2019.
NFL.com’s Maurice Jones-Drew ranked all 32 starting running backs in the league, and Mack came in at No. 17.
Coming off solid back-to-back seasons, Mack is a home-run hitter playing behind a great offensive line. He should get the call early on, but I can see Mack splitting carries with rookie Jonathan Taylor by Week 6. Staying healthy will be key for the Colts’ fourth-year back.
Taylor might be the future workhorse of the backfield, but Mack will get his work during the 2020 season. The Colts still love Mack’s explosive talent behind the elite offensive line, and he won’t simply be taking a back seat as soon as Taylor shows up.
Mack has dealt with injuries every season since entering the league as a fourth-round pick in 2017 but when he’s on the field, he has been extremely productive.
It will be interesting to see what the split will be, but Mack should be expected to see a fair amount of work early in the season.