The Colts have two-time Pro Bowl running back Jonathan Taylor in the backfield, being the main offensive weapon for the team.
But after Taylor, there is no strong second running back option for the Colts. Quarterback Anthony Richardson was second in rushing yards for Indianapolis, with 499 yards. RB Trey Sermon’s 159 rushing yards were third on the team.
Brent Sobleski of Bleacher Report calls Colts’ fifth-round draft selection an “overlooked rookie running back” who can have a major impact in year 1.
“As great of a runner as [Jonathan] Taylor is, he’s been hampered by injuries as of late. Over the last three seasons, the two-time Pro Bowler missed 16 games. His absence during those stretches dramatically altered the Colts offense,” Sobleski wrote. “Instead, a bit of Taylor can be found in DJ Giddens’ game. Over the last two seasons, the Kansas State product amassed 3,150 yards from scrimmage and 21 total touchdowns. He has a gliding style with breakaway speed.”
“With the likelihood of Taylor missing at least some time for the fourth straight season, the Colts still hoping Anthony Richardson claims the QB1 spot—which includes a heavy run-game approach—and Giddens providing explosive capabilities out of the backfield, the rookie can be a relatively big part of Indianapolis’ offensive plans.”
Taylor has played only one full season in his career, the 2021-22 season, when he produced over 1,800 yards and 18 touchdowns.
Colts’ Head Coach on DJ Giddens
GettyColts RB DJ Giddens.
Indianapolis Colts head coach Shane Steichen spoke to reporters after day 1 of rookie minicamp and described why the team drafted DJ Giddens.
“His movement skills, his vision, the way he sees the holes is impressive. He’s a glider,” Steichen said of the fifth-round pick. “He’s got really good instincts through the line of scrimmage. Obviously, had a lot of production there at K-State. So, to add that depth there in that running back room is gonna be big,”
ESPN’s Mel Kiper Jr. believes Giddens will be a good backup for Taylor, citing his two consecutive 1,200 + rushing seasons. Kiper gave the Colts a B grade for this year’s draft class.
Giddens ran for over 1,300 yards and rushed for 7 touchdowns in his last collegiate season.
Giddens on Year 1
Indianapolis Colts running back DJ Giddens.
It would be difficult for DJ Giddens to defeat incumbent Jonathan Taylor for the starting running back spot, he could receive snaps as RB2.
The Colts signed Khalil Herbert on a one-year deal, who last played for the Cincinnati Bengals. The two will fight for the second spot in training camp heading into the 2025-26 season.
“It’s competition for sure,” Giddens said of his rookie year expectations. “Like everybody coming in, I’m coming in to start. That’s what everybody and their mindset is. But whatever it is, I’ma keep working. So, I’m not tripping.”
Herbert ran for 130 yards last season with the Bengals and the Chicago Bears.
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