The Indianapolis Colts’ backfield has been the talk of the offseason, but many fans are overlooking the lone veteran running back.
While there aren’t many proven commodities in the Colts’ backfield, the team is still excited about the potential of this group of running backs.
Marlon Mack, Nyheim Hines, and Jordan Wilkins give the Colts three backs that have extreme potential with less than two years of NFL experience.
There has been hype about Nyheim Hines earning some touches and Jordan Wilkins working with the first team.
However, Stephen Holder of the Indianapolis Star wrote that we shouldn’t sleep on six-year veteran Robert Turbin in 2018.
Mack, Hines, and Wilkins are smaller, speedier running backs who do most of their damage in the open field.
Turbin will compliment their skill sets by becoming the power back in Frank Reich’s offense next season.
Holder included an incredible stat in his article regarding Turbin. He has either scored a touchdown or gained a first down on 28 of his 28 carries with 3 yards or less to go.
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Reich views Turbin as the short-yardage power back in Indianapolis.
"“I think he brings an element of size and power and strength to the mix,” said new head coach Frank Reich when asked about Turbin. “We have Nyheim and (Josh Ferguson) and Marlon, when he gets back (from shoulder surgery), who has some juice. Then we have a couple guys who kind of provide us with some size and power. And Turb is one of those guys. And he’s shown it. But what I like about him is not only has he shown that size and power and strength, he’s smart, he’s good in protections and he’s good enough of a route runner that he can be a three-down back.”Next: Possible Surprise Colts Starters for Next Season"
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At 5-foot 10-inches and 216 pounds, Robert Turbin has some sneaky power, but those incredible numbers in short-yardage situations show how effective he can be.
His six years of NFL experience also make him more reliable than the other running backs on the roster when it comes to the little things that players need to execute at that position, such as route running and pass protection.
Turbin also has a good rapport with Andrew Luck compared to the younger backs on the depth chart who have never played with the franchise quarterback.
The combination of size, effectiveness in short yardage situations, and his veteran savvy should give Robert Turbin plenty of opportunity to earn some playing time in a crowded and talented backfield.