Outlook at running back for Indianapolis Colts and top 2026 NFL draft prospects
Before training camp arrives and we fully turn our focus to the 2025 season for the Indianapolis Colts, let's take a brief look ahead to the 2026 NFL draft, specifically the running back position.
To do this, we will be taking a look at who the top prospects are within each position group and what potential need the Colts may have at these positions next offseason.
But first, our usual caveat here is that a lot will change between now and the NFL draft. Team needs will change based on how the 2025 season unfolds and what happens in free agency, while prospects will move up and down draft boards.
So, instead, use this as a guide for the upcoming college football season and which players to keep your eyes on.
What potential need at running back will the Colts have in 2026 NFL draft?
At this time, the need here is likely relatively low for the Colts. Jonathan Taylor will still be under contract for one more season, while the Colts also just drafted DJ Giddens.
So the team may not be looking for a starter for the 2026 season, but this may still end up being a position we see the Colts adding to in next year's draft.
For one, we don't know if Taylor will get a third contract with the Colts, so adding to the room next offseason could better position Indianapolis for the 2027 offseason if a change is made at that time. Also, bolstering the depth in 2026 is another reason to add to this position, with Khalil Herbert and Tyler Goodson both free agents.
I'll also point out that--and this isn't the expectation--but if things go sideways for the Colts this season, releasing Taylor next offseason saves the team $13 million in cap space, per Over the Cap, at which point, the need to address running back grows greatly.
Who are the top running back prospects in the 2026 NFL draft?
PFF's Trevor Sikkema recently ranked the top 10 running backs in the 2026 class. For more on each of these prospects, click here.
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Yahoo
24 minutes ago
- Yahoo
Jordan Hick retirement leaves Browns defense short-handed
Three days into camp, the Cleveland Browns are dealing another massive blow at linebacker as Jordan Hicks announces his retirement from the NFL after 10 seasons. Hicks was brought to Cleveland as a free agent in 2024 and played in 12 games, totaling 78 tackles and 2 sacks. Hicks hit his prime in Arizona during the 2019 season, where he had his best statistical season, but he wasn't on the radar of many to retire this close to the start of the season. With Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah already ruled out for the yea,r that leaves the Browns with Jerome Baker, Mohamoud Diabte, Devin Bush, and the rookie Carson Schwesinger to take the bulk of the snaps in 2025. The Browns quickly filled the spot by signing WR Winston Wright out of East Carolina, but look for Andrew Berry to bring in a veteran who can give you 20 to 30 meaningful snaps next season.
Yahoo
24 minutes ago
- Yahoo
Bears training camp observations: Caleb Williams bounces back on Day 4
The Chicago Bears hit the practice field at Halas Hall on Saturday morning for the fourth practice of training camp under new head coach Ben Johnson. It was a much better outing for the starting offense on Day 4, according to the media in attendance, where quarterback Caleb Williams had his best day of camp so far on a day that focused on third-down situations. Elsewhere, rookie tight end Colston Loveland participated in team drills for the first time this summer, and he made a solid impression. As far as attendance goes, right tackle Darnell Wright had a scheduled rest day (while Theo Benedet filled in), wide receiver Luther Burden III was still sidelined (but will "hopefully soon" return). Meanwhile, offensive linemen Kiran Amegadjie and Doug Kramer exited practice with injuries. Here are some observations, from media members and fans in attendance, following Saturday's training camp practice: Caleb Williams had his best day of camp Heavy focus on third down Braxton Jones, Ozzy Trapilo and Kiran Amegadjie rotated at left tackle while Theo Benedet started at right tackle with Darnell Wright resting Colston Loveland impressed as a full participant Offense finished strong with TD in 2-minute drill Doug Kramer, Kiran Amegadjie exited with injuries Follow Bears Wire on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram This article originally appeared on Bears Wire: Bears training camp observations: Caleb Williams bounces back on Day 4
Yahoo
24 minutes ago
- Yahoo
Former LSU football star wide receiver signs with new NFL squad
A former LSU football wide receiver has a new home in the NFL. DJ Chark signed a one-year deal with the Atlanta Falcons, per NFL Network's Ian Rapoport. Chark was drafted by the Jacksonville Jaguars in 2018, where he spent the first four years of his career. Following Jacksonville, Chark made stops in Detroit, Carolina, and LA. Chark surpassed 1,000 yards with the Jags in 2019, catching 73 passes for 1,008 yards and eight touchdowns. Chark averaged 13.8 yards per catch and earned Pro Bowl honors. With the Chargers in 2024, Chark didn't see much time. He only appeared in seven games and caught four passes for 31 yards. In his seven-year career, Chark has caught 216 passes for 3,100 yards and 24 touchdowns. Throughout his career, Chark has been known as a speedster who can take the top off a defense. He averaged 16.7 yards per catch with the Lions in 2022. Chark spent four years at LSU and emerged as one of the SEC's best receivers in 2017. Chark caught 40 passes for 874 yards, an average of 21.9 yards per reception. He was critical on special teams, too. This article originally appeared on LSU Wire: Former LSU football star wide receiver signs with new NFL squad
