The Indianapolis Colts are preparing for the quickly-approaching 2020 NFL draft where there are some thoughts about them adding to the running back position.
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Starter: Marlon Mack — signed through 2020
Backup: Nyheim Hines — signed through 2021
Level of need: Low
Cap investment: $5.34 million (25th in NFL)
Quick review
The Colts have a solid stable of running backs with Mack, Hines and Jordan Wilkins. Mack’s situation is interesting as he enters a contract year. He would be worth a decent extension, but it seems the Colts have a bit of hesitancy in getting a deal done right now.
This could lead the Colts to draft a running back while staying young and cheap at the position but still adding talent for now and the future.
Draft Preview
Draft Wire Running Back Rankings
Best Fit: Zack Moss, Utah
There are a lot of strong running back prospects that the Colts could consider. From a fit standpoint, Moss might be one of the best for Indy. He works perfectly with their zone-based blocking scheme, excelling both in inside and outside zone concepts. He shows great balance and has a competitive edge that makes him tough to bring down. The biggest concerns are his injury history and his lack of top-end speed but if his medicals check out, he’d be a great addition to the backfield now and for the future.
Prospect to Avoid: A.J. Dillon, Boston College
As the Colts like to run both zone and power blocking concepts, Dillon is likely best suited for a team that wants him to get north and south quickly. He’s a behemoth of a back who doesn’t see a lot of work on third downs. He runs tough but is likely better suited for a team that prefers to run mostly power and man blocking schemes.
Sleeper Prospect: Darrynton Evans, Appalachian State
The stock is rising quickly on Evans, who could be one of the steals at the position in the draft. He’s a perfect fit for the Colts in their zone-blocking scheme while making defenders miss with ease. He brings top-end speed and elusiveness to the position while also showing a knack for the receiving game. He might lack size or power, but Evans would be a strong fit behind the Colts offensive line.
Most likely selections to use on a running back: Nos. 75, 122, 160, 193, 197
Trade up probability: Low — The Colts won’t be trading up for a running back unless it would be to move up just a few spots later in the draft. The need isn’t high so they can wait in the draft until a player they like comes to them.
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