Colts Running Backs Shine in Training Camp

With superstar Jonathan Taylor on the PUP list and undergoing contract drama, other Indianapolis Colts running backs had a chance to display their skills at training camp.

Training camp is where players who aren’t starters could get a unique chance to showcase their true potential for the coaching staff.

With many teams choosing to rest or ease certain stars into practice who were recovering from injury, it allows the relief troops for that respective position to get their shot.

This was the case for the running back group during the second practice for the Indianapolis Colts.

Due to Jonathan Taylor not practicing, players like Zack Moss, Evan Hull, and Deon Jackson stepped up for the drills and played extra offensive snaps.

Zack Moss

© Mykal McEldowney/IndyStar / USA TODAY NETWORK

Moss played as the starter to wrap up last season in the backfield and averaged nearly five yards per carry in a Colts uniform. During his short time, he displayed glimpses of promise and the ability to take on a bigger role.

During day two of practices, Moss was taking starting snaps and running with the first team. This could be the sign that Moss may get the bulk of snaps at RB should Taylor be sidelined. He also looked solid and ready in the practice drills. 

Evan Hull

Mandatory Credit: Mykal McEldowney-USA TODAY Sports

Arguably the best receiving back taken out of the NFL draft, Hull is an interesting addition to Shane Steichen’s offensive scheme. He showed this in full during practice with multiple big plays, including a huge touchdown run.

Evan Hull just took a handoff from Gardner Minshew and took it 55 yards to the house. Hull has looked really good in camp so far.

— Andrew Moore (@AndrewMooreNFL) July 28, 2023

While it’s likely Moss would start with Taylor out, don’t sleep on Hull.

Despite being more of a receiving threat, he is unique in that he runs with more of a “downhill” style, meaning he doesn’t shy away from contact as a ball carrier.

Be on the lookout for updates during training camp involving Hull. If he continues playing like that he could get more work in the backfield. 

Deon Jackson

© Mykal McEldowney/IndyStar / USA TODAY NETWORK

Last season was Deon Jackson’s coming out party. In the 2022 campaign, Jackson was the best receiver out of the backfield for Indianapolis. Even with the constant inconsistency at quarterback, Jackson logged 30 catches last year and started a pair of games.

However, he also had a great day with the aforementioned backs during camp.

Deon Jackson just ripped off his 2nd huge run of the day #Colts

— Destin Adams (@TheDestinAdams) July 28, 2023

Jackson is a weapon with a dual-threat style, as he can be a good ball carrier and a solid receiver. 

Outlook

© Mykal McEldowney/IndyStar / USA TODAY NETWORK

These three players showed that they have a claim to make a solid committee backfield. However, given the situation that is happening with Taylor, they could be seeing more and more camp snaps to give the coaching staff consideration on how they’ll be used.

While it’s still a big step to get up to Taylor’s status as a running back, this committee behind Taylor is making a case that they could be dangerous, as well. 

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