INDIANAPOLIS – More often than not, an abundance of good things happened when Robert Turbin was on the field in 2016.
Turbin and Jack Doyle, both free agents in 2017, were easily two of the most reliable Colts this past season.
Last spring, the Colts went out and inked Turbin to a one-year contract. Turbin had primarily spent his first four NFL seasons as Marshawn Lynch's backup in Seattle.
The Colts relied heavily on Turbin for three main roles: short-yardage back, third-down threat and even on special teams.
Turbin's pure numbers in 2016 were rather modest (47 rushes for 164 yards, 3.5 yards per carry; 26 catches for 179 yards).
But Turbin had a career-high eight touchdowns, shattering his previous career total of just three scores.
Signing with the Colts, Turbin wanted to prove he deserved a shot at being a full-time starter in this league.
He made a strong case.
Turbin has said there's “unfinished business” here in Indianapolis, but returning would likely mean backing up Frank Gore for another season.
Would the 27-year-old Turbin want to play second fiddle again in 2017, with a possible shot at starting in 2018, once Gore's contract runs out?
No matter what happens with Turbin, the Colts should still look into drafting a running back this April in such a deep ball carrier class.
Bringing Turbin back would make plenty of sense for the Colts, even with Gore's astonishing durability. It's hard to imagine the market calling for Turbin to be a definite starter somewhere else, without any competition.
You need multiple backs to survive an NFL season.
Turbin was more than adequate in 2016. His presence again in 2017 should be more than welcomed.*
2017 Free Agent Watch**
-Safety Mike Adams: **Adams Watch***
-Cornerback/Safety Darius Butler: **Butler Watch**
-Outside Linebacker Chris Carter: **Carter Watch**
-Outside Linebacker Trent Cole: **Cole Watch**
-Tight End Jack Doyle: **Doyle Watch**
-Offensive Guard Hugh Thornton: Thornton Watch
*-Running Back Jordan Todman: Todman Watch
*
The analysis from those producing content on Colts.com does not necessarily represent the thoughts of the Indianapolis Colts organization. Any conjecture, analysis or opinions formed by Colts.com content creators is not based on inside knowledge gained from team officials, players or staff.
