The saga with Indianapolis Colts star running back Jonathan Taylor took another turn on Tuesday, August 29th. That was the deadline that the team set for Taylor to find a willing trade partner, but no deal was consummated. Based on reports about what the Colts asked the Miami Dolphins for in a trade, it isn’t a surprise that Taylor wasn’t moved.
On top of no trade getting completed, the Colts also decided to keep Taylor on the PUP-List, which means he will be sidelined for at least the first four weeks of the season. Teams can try trading for him again after that, but Indianapolis now has to figure things out knowing their backfield will be shorthanded.
Right now, Deon Jackson sits atop the Colts’ depth chart as the healthiest running back. 202 fifth-round pick Evan Hull is behind him as the status of Zack Moss is up in the air. Moss broke his arm during training camp and may not be ready to go when the season starts.
Adding some insurance to the backfield wouldn’t be the worst idea for the Colts. Alex House of ClutchPoints suggested three players the team could target, starting with veteran Darrell Henderson.
Henderson had some productive seasons with the Los Angeles Rams in 2020 and 2021 but like the rest of his teammates, struggled in 2022. Still only 26 years old, he should have something left to offer a team.
Next on the list is Dontrell Hilliard. While not a household name, Hilliard is someone who has shown capable of being an efficient runner. His opportunities were limited playing behind Nick Chubb and Derrick Henry for most of his career, but when called upon, he answered the bell.
For his career, Hilliard averages 5.9 yards per carry. His most productive season was in 2021 with the Tennessee Titans when he carried the ball 56 times for 350 yards and two scores. He has shown some receiving chops as well with 62 receptions in 52 career games.
Last but not least, House suggested the Colts have talks with Kareem Hunt again. Hunt visited the team a few weeks ago but left without a deal getting done. Now that Indianapolis knows it won’t have Taylor for at least the first four weeks of the season, revisiting things would make sense.
Hunt struggled last season with the Cleveland Browns but would bring experience to the Colts’ backfield. He has been a lead back before and excels as the passing game complement in a tandem.
With a young quarterback in Anthony Richardson under center, it would be in the Colts’ best interest to surround him with as much veteran experience and talent as possible. Hunt would certainly suffice as someone the team could trust in pass protection.
