Donald Brown praised by Pep Hamilton
Indianapolis Colts running back Donald Brown (31) runs for 50 yards as Jacksonville Jaguars cornerback Mike Harris (20) chases him in the second quarter of their game at EverBank Field. Mandatory Credit: Phil Sears-USA TODAY Sports
Indianapolis Colts backup RB Donald Brown isn’t much of a fantasy option, but he is worth keeping on the watch list based on Ahmad Bradshaw’s injury and some recent comments made by offensive coordinator Pep Hamilton. The unquestioned feature back on the Colts is recent trade acquisition Trent Richardson, who still has the full confidence of a wisely patient Chuck Pagano despite averaging under three yards per carry since the trade. Ahmad Bradshaw’s neck injury is viewed as more severe than initially thought, and he could need season-ending surgery if the injury does not heal up on its own. Although Richardson is going to be a bellcow back and Donald Brown received just five total touches (three carries, two catches) in Bradshaw’s stead on Sunday, his role is due to increase after impressing with limited touches. If Richardson doesn’t turn things around then the Colts will most likely give Brown the added snaps/touches.
According to Colts official site beat writer Kevin Bowen, Colts offensive coordinator Pep Hamilton stated that the Colts will look to increase Brown’s role. He said, “He’s going to continue to play a major part not only in our running game but our passing game as well.”
If this is true, then it pays to watch for Brown extremely closely. Despite receiving just three carries to Trent Richardson’s 20, Donald Brown outgained T-Rich 65-60 on Sunday, and Brown also made an impact in the passing game with two receptions. That’s likely led to a vote of confidence from Hamilton, which is what that quote sounds like. Against the Seattle Seahawks tough run defense, I’m not really sure how many carries to expect from Brown. What I do know is if Richardson struggles in Week 6, the Colts are going to have to give a better-performing backup (either Brown or Bradshaw, if he is healthy by then) significantly more touches.
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