Indianapolis Colts: Five Intriguing Undrafted Free Agents
By Kyle Nishida
Running Back Josh Ferguson
The Indianapolis Colts are thin at running back, and Ferguson has a chance at being a nice role player for them as a result. He only stands at 5’9” and weighs less than 200 pounds, but he could be an excellent change-of-pace back for the team.
According to Colts’ writer Kevin Bowen, offensive coordinator Rod Chudzinski thinks Ferguson could potentially fit as a scat back for the Colts. Chudzinski knows how to use scat backs because he effectively used Darron Sproles when he coached for the San Diego Chargers. Chudzinski thinks he could use Ferguson in a similar way.
Ferguson’s production certainly suggests he could be an excellent scat back in the NFL. In 47 career games at the University of Illinois, Ferguson accumulated for 2,586 rushing yards and 1,507 receiving yards.
Currently, the Colts’ running back depth reads as follows: 1) Frank Gore, 2) Robert Turbin, 3) Tyler Varga and 4) Jordan Todman. No one is going to overtake Gore as the primary back, and the Colts have already hinted that Turbin will the backup. The rest of the running back depth is unknown though.
Ferguson could potentially compete with Varga and Todman over playing time. While both running backs have NFL experience over Ferguson, neither player is a scat back. This is a good opportunity for Ferguson to showcase a skill set that his two competitors do not possess.
The Indianapolis Colts need more production out of the running back position and will keep the players with the most talent. Last year, one of the running backs who the Colts valued a lot was Varga, an undrafted free agent.
It is not a forgone conclusion that the same thing will happen for Ferguson, but the opportunity will be there if he performs well in the summer.
Here are some of Josh Ferguson’s highlights as a member of the Fighting Illini:
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