Trent Richardson continues to take two steps backwards in his NFL career. The Indianapolis Colts running back cannot seem to find traction as Monday night was another example of underachieving by league standards. The former first-round draft pick actually put up the most yards rushing he has had in the past two years, but it still was not enough to make an impact. Will the Colts be forced to make a move in the coming week?
Richardson and Ahmad Bradshaw have been splitting the running back duties for the Colts. Against the Eagles, Richardson had 79 yards on 21 carries while Bradshaw put up 70 yards on 13 carries while also recording five catches for 26 yards. By all standards, both running backs did not perform well, but neither did the Colts' offensive line. However, all of that is overshadowed by the fact that Richardson is only managing 3.8 yards per carry while Bradshaw is putting up 5.4 yards per carry.
Head coach Chuck Pagano has remained very confident that Richardson can pull things together, but when does that patience end? Bradshaw was clearly the better option against the Eagles and might remain that way going forward. Pagano would give no hints as to who takes over the starting job.
"From game to game, it'll be different depending on the score and how we're using different personnel groups," Pagano said, via the Indianapolis Star. "They're both more than capable of being every-down backs. They're both good in pass protection. They're both good out of the backfield. Whether it's Ahmad out there or Trent out there, I feel good about both those guys."
Fantasy owners are likely pulling their hair out when it comes to Richardson. At this point, the running back is not even good enough for the RB2 spot on a roster. For now, the Colts are committed to Richardson. He will get the most carries and that might not change in Week 3. The Colts face the Jacksonville Jaguars who are ranked at No. 28 in rushing defense. If Richardson cannot make an impact next week against a weaker defensive unit, then Pagano will have to rethink his commitment to the running back.
