Colts Sign Former Steelers Running Back Chris Rainey

After holding a tryout, of sorts, that featured players such as Ramses Barden, Joe Adams, Christo Bilukidi, Sherrod Martin, and Marcus Burley, the Indianapolis Colts signed former Steelers running back Chris Rainey.

Rainey, who was released by the Steelers in January after an arrest, was a 5th round pick of Pittsburgh’s in the 2012 NFL Draft. The charges surrounding the January arrest that prompted Rainey’s release were later dropped. He has been out of football since his departure from Pittsburgh.

The move to sign Rainey sends a mixed signal. Just yesterday, the wide receiver starved Colts cut Griff Whalenn and replaced him by promoting tight end Justice Cunningham to the active roster. Meanwhile, returner David Reed, who has been next-to-useless as a special teams player, maintains a roster spot.

Rainey reportedly clocked a 4-yard dash time in the low 4.3 area when he auditioned for the Chiefs in September, per PFT. He also has experience returning punts and kicks, making the Colts’ decision to retain Reed even more odd.

Is Rainey on the roster because the Colts are finally sick of Trent Richardson’s crappy rushing stats?

Is Rainey in Indy because they want to push Reed?

If so, why does a scrub like Reed even need a push?

It’s an odd signing, but one that isn’t unwelcome.