Indianapolis Colts’ rookie running back Seth McGowan is competing for the backup role with DJ Giddens.
Of course, Jonathan Taylor will continue to shoulder a heavy workload at this position, but the Colts having a steady RB2 option can provide a reprieve when needed.
Although there is a long ways to go before a winner of this competition is determined, McGowan has already caught the attention of Taylor.
“A lot of times when you come in, you know, as a rookie, there’s almost like a built-in set of, hey, he may have a couple, you know, mental errors. You know, you’re learning the offense,” Taylor said via Horseshoe Huddle. “He’s had very minimal, like, if any. So that lets me know he’s a smart guy. He can grasp concepts, which is going to only help him, especially when training camp comes and things are going full speed.”
McGowan will add another physical presence to the Colts’ backfield. During his college career, he averaged 3.22 yards after contact, highlighting his ability to stay on his feet and pick up extra yards.
In 2025, he ranked 42nd among running backs, generating 35 missed tackles. McGowan did that on 166 carries as well. A number of the players in front of him had over 200 carries, per PFF.
Of course, there is a certain prerequisite that Giddens and McGowan must meet as ball carriers to earn the backup role, but the ability to help in the passing game and on special teams could be differentiators.
Shane Steichen recently discussed the growth he has seen from Giddens in Year 2, along with what he’s looking for in the backup running back position.
This article originally appeared on Colts Wire: Jonathan Taylor evaluates early play of Colts’ rookie Seth McGowan
Reporting by Paul Bretl, Colts Wire / Colts Wire
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
By Paul Bretl, Colts Wire | USA TODAY Network
