The Indianapolis Colts running back depth chart for the 2026 NFL season features Jonathan Taylor as the team’s starting running back, with Seth McGowan and DJ Giddens providing depth behind him.
With the NFL trade deadline approaching on November 10, questions surrounding Taylor’s future in Indianapolis have raised interest in who could become the Colts’ next starting running back if the team makes a move.
Indianapolis Colts Running Back Depth Chart 2026
According to the Colts’ Week 8 depth chart released October 27, the running back positions are listed as follows:
| Position | Player | Role |
|---|---|---|
| RB1 | Jonathan Taylor | Starting Running Back |
| RB2 | Seth McGowan | Primary Backup |
| RB3 | DJ Giddens | Third-String Running Back |
Taylor remains the centerpiece of the Indianapolis rushing attack, while McGowan and Giddens provide additional options in the backfield.
Who Is the Colts’ Starting Running Back?
Jonathan Taylor is the Indianapolis Colts’ starting running back in 2026.
Taylor has established himself as one of the NFL’s most recognizable running backs, combining speed, power, and the ability to produce explosive rushing plays.
His role as the Colts’ primary ball carrier makes him an important part of the team’s offensive strategy.
However, with the November 10 NFL trade deadline approaching, speculation surrounding potential roster changes has brought attention to Indianapolis’ running back depth.
Who Is Jonathan Taylor’s Backup?
Seth McGowan is listed as the Colts’ second-string running back behind Jonathan Taylor.
McGowan, a rookie selected in the seventh round of the 2026 NFL Draft out of Kentucky, provides Indianapolis with another option in its rushing attack.
If Taylor were unavailable because of an injury or a potential trade, McGowan would be a leading candidate to receive additional carries.
However, an expanded role would ultimately depend on the Colts’ coaching decisions and offensive game plan.
Who Is the Colts’ Third-String Running Back?
DJ Giddens occupies the third position on the Indianapolis Colts running back depth chart.
Giddens provides additional depth and could receive more opportunities if injuries, trades, or changes in the offensive rotation affect the team’s backfield.
His presence gives Indianapolis another option behind Taylor and McGowan.
What Happens if the Colts Trade Jonathan Taylor?
If the Indianapolis Colts decide to trade Jonathan Taylor before the November 10 NFL trade deadline, the team could face a significant change at running back.
Based on the current depth chart, the projected backfield without Taylor would look like this:
| Position | Player |
|---|---|
| RB1 | Seth McGowan |
| RB2 | DJ Giddens |
| RB3 | To Be Determined |
McGowan could become the leading candidate for the starting position, while Giddens could move into a larger rotational role.
Indianapolis could also explore free agency, trades, or practice squad options to strengthen its running back depth.
There is no confirmed Jonathan Taylor trade, and any changes to the depth chart remain hypothetical.
Why the Colts’ Running Back Depth Matters
Running back depth is an important part of Indianapolis’ offensive success.
The Colts rely on their rushing attack to help establish offensive balance, control possession, and create opportunities in the passing game.
While Taylor provides an experienced starting option, McGowan and Giddens could become increasingly important if Indianapolis needs to adjust its offensive personnel.
The development of the team’s younger running backs could also influence future roster decisions.
Indianapolis Colts Running Back Depth Chart: Frequently Asked Questions
Who is RB1 for the Indianapolis Colts in 2026?
Jonathan Taylor is listed as the Colts’ starting running back.
Who is RB2 for the Colts?
Seth McGowan is listed as the primary backup to Jonathan Taylor.
Who is RB3 for the Indianapolis Colts?
DJ Giddens is listed as the team’s third-string running back.
Who would replace Jonathan Taylor if he is traded?
Seth McGowan would be a leading candidate to replace Taylor based on the current depth chart, although the Colts could also add another running back.
When is the 2026 NFL trade deadline?
The 2026 NFL trade deadline is scheduled for Tuesday, November 10.
Final Thoughts
The Indianapolis Colts running back depth chart in 2026 continues to feature Jonathan Taylor as the starter, followed by Seth McGowan and DJ Giddens.
While Taylor remains the team’s primary rushing option, Indianapolis’ younger running backs could play more significant roles depending on injuries, roster moves, and coaching decisions.
With the NFL trade deadline approaching, the Colts’ backfield will be worth monitoring as Indianapolis evaluates its roster for the remainder of the 2026 season.