Colts 2014 Positional Review: Running Back
By Evan Reller
Oct 19, 2014; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Indianapolis Colts running back Ahmad Bradshaw (44) reacts to scoring a touchdown against the Cincinnati Bengals at Lucas Oil Stadium. Indianapolis defeats Cincinnati 27-0. Mandatory Credit: Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports
2015 Contract: Unrestricted Free Agent
Stats: 425 Rushing Yards, 4.7 avg, 2 TDs. 38 Receptions, 300 yards, 6 TDs
PFF Grade: +5.8
DVOA: -1.7% DYAR: 26 (Among RBs with under 100 carries)
The Good:
Bradshaw was clearly the best back on the Colts roster this season. He was particularly dangerous around the goal line and well on his way towards setting a record for receiving touchdowns by a running back.
The Colts like his versatility and the offense was far more effective with him on the field. It seemed as if every drive without Bradshaw in the lineup was destined to fail early in the season.
The Bad:
Another season, another finish on IR. Bradshaw cannot stay healthy. Last year it was the neck injury and this season a fractured ankle.
His injury hit the team’s red zone offense the hardest. The Colts seemed to rely too heavily on Bradshaw’s abilities out of the backfield when they got into scoring position.
2015 Outlook:
The Colts had enough faith in Bradshaw to re-sign him after 2013 and it wouldn’t be surprising if they did the same this year. Bradshaw only cost the Colts $855,000 in 2014, and a contract of similar value would be appropriate.
Bradshaw is 28 and likely still has quite a bit left in the tank, but two years on IR and a history of leg injuries might have him questioning his future in the NFL. I’d expect the Colts to re-sign him for another year with another low risk deal.
He’ll have a similar impact on the Colts offense, but the question will always be: how long can he stay healthy?