What Robert Turbin’s Suspension Means for the Colts

It was announced today that running back Robert Turbin would be suspended four games for violating the leagues substance abuse policy. How does that affect the Colts?

The Colts were dealt a blow today after it was announced that Robert Turbin would be suspended the first four games of the season. Turbin has been a great short yardage back and was expected to be the number two back again. That will no longer be the case moving forward.

Turbin is a big and strong back, and he was very useful in goal-line situations last year. That role will now have to be filled by someone else, probably rookie Jordan Wilkins. This suspension is big news for him, as he will now get to play a much larger role in the offense.

This suspension will also help fellow rookie Nyheim Hines see the field earlier as well. He is more of a speedy back, but was projected to be the third down back. Now he moves up into the backup slot with Turbin out. He gets to showcase his skills sooner.

While this is a blow for the Colts, it’s not all bad. This gives the rookies an opportunity to show their worth early on. It also gives them valuable experience. This will help their development along. And when Turbin comes back, it gives the Colts more depth at the running back position.

The coaching staff will adjust to this news immediately. The good news is that the Colts are still months away from playing a game, so they have time to make adjustments. Both rookies will get plenty of reps in training camp so they are prepared to share the new load they bare.

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Turbin might have screwed up his future with the Colts. They already drafted two backs behind him, and now this incident might put him out of a job soon. If the Colts don’t cut him soon, look for him to leave as soon as after the season.