The Indianapolis Colts reportedly are among the teams showing interest in USC running back Austin Jones ahead of the 2024 NFL Draft.
Even though the Colts have Jonathan Taylor leading the backfield as he begins the first year of his new contract extension, finding depth behind him will be crucial.
The Colts aren't expected to be heavy players in the running back market during the draft, but there's a good chance they add one on Day 3 or following the draft with priority free agents.
For more Coltss coverage, check out Kevin Hickey's work on Sporting News.
Colts showing interest in USC RB Austin Jones
According to Justin Melo of The Draft Network, the Colts were among the teams showing interest in Jones.
At 5-foot-9 and 200 pounds, Jones enters the league after spending five seasons in college. He spent three at Stanford (2019-2021) and the final two seasons at USC (2022-2023). His best season came in 2022 when he took 135 carries for 705 rushing yards and five touchdowns while adding 25 receptions for 267 receiving yards and a receiving touchdown.
Jones didn't get an invite to the NFL Scouting Combine, but he did participate in USC's pro day. His 4.57 in the 40-yard dash isn't all that impressive, especially at 200 pounds, but he did record a 36.5-inch vertical jump and 10-foot-0-inch broad jump.
Jones is likely a priority free agent for the Colts following the draft and even though he doesn't have the frame to handle many carries between the tackles, he does boast some superior pass-catching skills.
