When Dominic Rhodes had his first season with the Indianapolis Colts, he was filling in for Edgerrin James, who was out for the season. Rhodes played great, earning himself 1,000 rushing yards. Rhodes would become the primary back-up back to James from 2001-2005. James would leave for the Arizona Cardinals the season later. With this, Rhodes and Joseph Addai would team up to make a solid one-two punch, which would land them in Super Bowl XLI, where Rhodes ran for 100-plus yards as Indy beat the Chicago Bears, 29-17.
Rhodes would play with the Oakland Raiders the season later after being released for drinking-and-driving charges less than a month after the Super Bowl. Rhodes had a rather disappointing season, but would however return to Indianapolis in 2008, where he teamed up with Addai again for the great one-two punch. Addai would play with the Buffalo Bills a season later, but was surprisingly cut by training camp. Addai was jobless and would play with the UFL’s Florida Tuskers.
Now with Indy slim at running back, the Colts have signed Rhodes again with the recent injuries to Mike Hart and Addai. Rhodes is happy to be with the Colts for his third time around.
“Third time, and I’m happier than the first time,” Rhodes said Tuesday.
Rhodes has over 3,000 rushing yards with 26 touchdowns and is probably known as one of the better back-up running backs in NFL history. Rhodes gets to play with his former team again.
“I got a chance to see my family – it’s a family reunion,” Rhodes said. “We’re all excited, especially me. I’m always excited. It’s definitely a great homecoming.”
Indianapolis needs a good running back like Rhodes, who can run, catch, and block just as effectively as Addai did. I see him starting or playing a lot at least. He looks to show off his talents against the Tennessee Titans on Thursday night.
“I haven’t stopped working out,” Rhodes said. “I still remember a lot of the plays – some little things here and there – but as far as being in game shape, I’m ready. Whatever they throw at me, let’s get it.
“I’m ready. I’m ready to play. I think that’s why they brought me here on such short notice. I don’t know if I’m going to play Thursday, but I’ll be ready. My mindset will be that I’m going out to start.”
He may be starting, as Donald Brown is a bit banged up. I see Brown, Javarris James, and Rhodes getting some carries.