The Indianapolis Colts are down to two legitimate backs on their roster (unless if Dan Herron or another backup can turn into a useful piece) after Vick Ballard’s second straight season-ending injury, and both Trent Richardson and Ahmad Bradshaw have the talent to form a formidable 1-2 punch. Both backs, however, have their share of issues, as Richardson has yet to turn his talent into efficient production in his first two seasons, though he has shown the ability to make defenders miss. Meanwhile, Bradshaw has been a legitimate feature back before and has legit three-down talent, but he’s far too injury-prone to trust with significant carries over the course of a full season.
Horseshoe Heroes
Bradshaw played in just three games last season after suffering a season-ending neck injury, but the Colts re-signed him and are most likely thankful they did after Ballard went down again. According to ESPN NFL Nation’s Mike Wells, Bradshaw “has been a positive” in training camp thus far, as he hasn’t shown any neck issues to this point, which is definitely great news.
Colts head coach Chuck Pagano said of the 28-year-old RB, “He looks fantastic. He has found the groove to make it. We know how tough Ahmad is. We know how he’s wired, so I’m not going to be pulling back on the reins. He’s one of those guys we have to protect them from themselves. It will take care of itself. He’s not one of those guys that will think about what he went through.”
It’s great to hear that Bradshaw looks healthy, because it’s no surprise to hear that he looks good. He’s a former 1,200-yard back and an efficient rusher, as he averaged 4.5 yards per carry last season before going down. Bradshaw can run in between the tackles, bounce outside, pick up blitzers effectively, and catch passes out of the backfield. He’s as well-rounded as they come, so the only glaring question mark with him has been- and will, sadly, continue to be- his health.