In recent developments within the Indianapolis Colts backfield, it appears that while Jonathan Taylor remains the primary focus of the running game, veterans Ameer Abdullah and rookie DJ Giddens are beginning to carve out their own roles. With Taylor playing at an elite level, accumulating 115 carries for 603 yards and 20 receptions for 147 yards, the opportunities for other running backs have been limited.
Over the past two weeks, Abdullah has emerged as the second option, receiving crucial touches particularly in red-zone situations. Against the Raiders, he was given two red-zone carries, followed by two additional touches in a recent matchup, outpacing Giddens, who has had minimal action with only 11 snaps logged in two games. Abdullah’s involvement has been noteworthy; he amassed a total of eight snaps, with three coming in a recent game where he recorded a carry for seven yards and caught a pass for nine yards.
Indianapolis head coach Shane Steichen commented on Abdullah’s experience and practice performance, noting, “I think he played what, three plays? But yeah, he’s been around for a while and he’s shown some really good things in practice.” Giddens, while showing potential, has primarily benefitted from garbage time, totalling 18 carries for 66 yards, making it difficult to establish a rhythm.
The future involvement of Abdullah, who has seamlessly taken over for Tyler Goodson after his groin injury, could continue to evolve. Currently, Abdullah has 3 carries and a catch over the past two weeks, while Goodson has seen limited action with only two carries and a catch this season.
While the division of running back duties may largely hinge on Taylor’s health going forward, the Colts’ increased interest in Abdullah presents an intriguing storyline as the season progresses. Observers will be keen to see how the roles of these running backs develop alongside Taylor’s standout performances.