Jonathan Taylor’s status as a top-tier running back in the NFL is beyond dispute. He has been a cornerstone of the Indianapolis Colts’ offense, consistently demonstrating his skills as one of the league’s premier backs.
Despite his impressive performance, injuries have been a recurring issue for Taylor throughout his career. In response, the Colts have sought to bolster their running back corps with an experienced backup. To achieve this, the team has turned to Khalil Herbert, a former standout at Virginia Tech, signing him to a one-year contract.
Herbert’s addition is the latest in a series of roster moves by the Colts, who are also bolstering their quarterback position. The team has signed quarterback Daniel Jones, who will provide competition for Anthony Richardson in the battle for the starting quarterback spot in the upcoming season.
Khalil Herbert finds home behind a top 10 running back in Jonathan Taylor
While Khalil Herbert won’t supplant Jonathan Taylor as the Colts’ primary running back, he has the potential to make a significant impact as a third-down specialist. Herbert’s NFL journey began with the Chicago Bears, who drafted him in 2021. Initially, he emerged as the team’s top running back by season’s end, but his fortunes changed, and he slipped down the depth chart by the start of the 2022 season.
Injuries ultimately cost Herbert the entire 2023 season, and he was subsequently traded to the Cincinnati Bengals. During his lone season with the Bengals, Herbert rushed for 130 yards and a touchdown on 30 carries. Throughout his four-year NFL career, Herbert has accumulated 1,905 rushing yards on 400 carries, scoring nine touchdowns. He has also contributed as a receiver, hauling in 53 passes for 312 yards and two touchdowns.
Khalil Herbert’s collegiate career took off during his lone season at Virginia Tech, where he transferred after spending four years at Kansas. In 2020, Herbert had a breakout year with the Hokies, rushing for 1,182 yards on 154 carries, averaging an impressive 7.7 yards per carry and scoring eight touchdowns. He averaged 107.5 yards per game over 11 contests.
This signing with the Colts could prove to be a shrewd move, as Herbert may find himself with opportunities to contribute meaningful snaps as a backup and make an impact on third downs. With a fresh start in Indianapolis, Herbert may be poised to make the most of this under-the-radar signing.
