3 Reasons Richardson/Hull Could be Colts' Best QB/RB Option in 2023

Amid the Jonathan Taylor drama, the Indianapolis Colts have stumbled upon a winning quarterback/running back combo.

The Indianapolis Colts wrapped up their final preseason game of the year against the Philadelphia Eagles on Thursday. While the Colts played a well-rounded game from top to bottom, winning 27-13, what stood out at times was how well running back Evan Hull looked in Shane Steichen’s offense with fellow rookie quarterback Anthony Richardson.

Given Hull’s skill set and what Steichen wants to do with Richardson at quarterback, is there a chance this combination could work out better than what current star running back Jonathan Taylor could provide the team? Let’s dive into it.

Hull is an Elusive, Downhill Runner

While it’s clear that Taylor is one of the most dangerous and explosive runners in the NFL, Hull is also a solid ball carrier in his own right. In the game against the Eagles, Hull would carry the ball six times for 25 rushing yards and a rushing touchdown. 

This is a pretty decent stat line. However, he would not only show good vision out of the backfield but showcased his power as a runner, too.

At the start of the second quarter, Hull would have a rushing touchdown called back since he was down at the goal line. But, what was the bigger story was how he ran the ball, putting his shoulders down and running through a would-be tackler, showing he can be both quick with his feet through running lanes but also unafraid of initiating contact — and does it well.

It’s fair to say Taylor is on a higher level with these attributes than Hull. But, given time and development in this offense, along with building chemistry with Richardson, Hull could continue to improve and become better as a runner.

Pass Blocking

This is where Hull will start to out-pace Taylor as far as his capabilities as a running back. Hull showcased high-end pass protection for Richardson against the Eagles, who brought pressure multiple times to try and shake up their defense against the rookie signal-caller. 

While there were several snaps where Hull would pass-block well, one play stands out over all others. In the second quarter of the contest, Richardson would see a blitz right up the middle from the Eagles, looking like there was a clear path to either a QB pressure or sack. 

What would ensue would be a big-time pancake block dealt by Hull, putting the Philadelphia blitzer straight into the dirt.

Colts rookie RB Evan Hull is an efficient runner with good vision. But he also has a lot of potential as a passing down back that's a plus player in protection and on Screen plays.

Useful player who had a strong showing in the Colts final preseason game. pic.twitter.com/4ozwuXEkyf

— Nate Tice (@Nate_Tice) August 26, 2023

This allowed Richardson to step up into the pocket and deliver a great ball to wide receiver Josh Downs. Despite the play ending in a drop, this is a very encouraging sign from the rookie running back, especially given that Taylor has been critiqued for not being as effective at pass protection in his career.

Receiving Ability

The Eagles contest didn’t feature a single catch by Hull. But he is still arguably the best receiving back on the team and could be one of the best in the league soon.

At Northwestern in 2022, Hull would lead all NCAA running backs in catches with 55 and would average nearly 10 yards per reception. This is a welcome addition to any NFL offense, given how the running back position has evolved to more of a diverse role in recent years. 

Pair that with the fact that the Northwestern offense was also highly dysfunctional in 2022, and you have a more impressive display of Hull’s efficiency as a receiver. With Richardson likely needing a safety valve at times, Hull can be just that — a weapon that could make life easier in the early stages of the rookie QB's career.

Taylor is electric with the football in his hands, but route-running and catching isn’t his forte, and never has been either. Even at Wisconsin, with his incredible usage, he would tally a mere 42 catches through three seasons, 13 shy of Hull’s 2022 body of work. 

In the NFL, Taylor has caught 104 passes with a season-high of 40 (2021). Hull could potentially best these numbers and give opposing defenses another weapon to worry about in the passing game.

While Hull wasn’t used much as a receiver in the preseason, that's highly likely to change drastically in the regular campaign. Indianapolis knew when drafting Hull that he was a solid receiving threat, and Steichen likely has plans to utilize those skills in his young offense and give Richardson more options to throw to.

What it Means

Look, Taylor is a great running back. That’s not a debate or an argument to have. On any given Sunday, he can ruin a defensive game plan with one or two big runs or constant carries that result in a massive amount of production.

But, given the contract situation and the current state of the running back position in the league, Hull may be better for the Colts’ offense in the long term. Hull has a repertoire that is more diverse and can also protect Richardson in the pocket.

Currently, Hull isn’t a better runner than Taylor. But, for Steichen’s offense and what Indianapolis wants to do for its burgeoning franchise QB, Hull may be a better fit now and in the future. 

The dispute with Taylor will be something to watch out for, as it can impact Hull’s immediate role and outlook with the Colts. 

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