As training camp approaches the halfway mark, the Colts made their first batch of roster moves on Friday.
The team announced that they made four signings: offensive tackle Marcellus Johnson, cornerback BJ Mayes, and running backs Nay’Quan Wright and Nate Noel.
They also released cornerback Tre Herndon, waived-injured linebacker Liam Anderson and placed cornerback Justin Walley and running back Salvon Ahmed on injured reserve.
The slew of running back changes come after Ahmed suffered a gruesome ankle injury as a result of a hip-drop tackle on Aug. 2. But there is more to it.
The Colts running backs left something to be desired in Indy’s preseason loss to the Ravens. And while free agent signing Khalil Herbert did score the only touchdown for the Colts, his position on the depth chart (RB4) is an indicator of the confidence Indy’s coaching staff have in him.
DJ Giddens and Tyler Goodson both received the initial starting snaps, while Herbert played most of the second half. Against a back up defense, he did manage to pick up 29 yards on 7 carries, but he was usurped by undrafted rookie Ulysses Bentley IV, who led the team in rushing with 5.0 yards per carry.
By bringing in more competition at running back, the Colts are sending a clear message to Herbert that he must step up his game and reestablish himself as a contributing member of their offense, or he could end up being a surprise roster cut.
