Colts 2016 player preview: Running back Josh Ferguson

The Indianapolis Colts will report to training camp on July 26 with their 90-man roster, which will be cut down to 53 players by the end of the preseason.  To pass the time until camp, we're taking a look at every player on the Colts' 90-man roster.  Today, we're looking at running back Josh Ferguson.

Who is he?

The Indianapolis Colts didn't add a running back in the seven rounds of the NFL Draft, but they did sign a very interesting prospect as an undrafted free agent.  Though Josh Ferguson wasn't drafted, the Colts reportedly really liked him -€” enough so that they considered drafting him beginning in the fourth round, according to the Indianapolis Star's Stephen Holder.  Once Ferguson went undrafted, the Colts gave him a very large signing bonus for an undrafted player to ensure that they got him.  He seems to have made a positive impression so far, as head coach Chuck Pagano said that Ferguson "looks really good" this offseason.  Ferguson certainly had a productive collegiate career, as he played in 47 games at Illinois and recorded 4,474 all-purpose yards.  He rushed for 2,586 yards and 18 touchdowns while averaging 5.1 yards per carry, while he also caught 186 passes for 1,507 yards and eight touchdowns.  He finished his collegiate career as the school's all-time leader in receptions and receiving yards by a running back.

What is his role?

The Colts have Frank Gore as their starting running back, but they really need to find someone to back him up this year, as well as someone to replace him down the road.  A player like Josh Ferguson (only 23 years old) could be an option to do both, as he could back Gore up this year while competing down the road.  That's a lot to ask for an undrafted player, however, so first things first: he needs to make the roster.  Though there are other running backs that are on the roster, Ferguson seems to be the wild card of the group and very well could end up as the number two back, providing a change of pace and a receiving threat out of the backfield.  Again, it's important not to get too high of expectations for undrafted players and we know that players who aren't selected in the draft always face an uphill battle, but Josh Ferguson seems to be a very strong contender not only for a roster spot but for the number two running back spot.

What are his chances?

Though he's an undrafted free agent, Josh Ferguson seems to have a good chance to make the roster and maybe even see legitimate playing time.