What draft experts said about new Colts RB Seth McGowan

TL;DR

The Indianapolis Colts selected Kentucky running back Seth McGowan in the 2026 NFL draft. McGowan rushed for 730 yards at New Mexico and 824 yards at Kentucky, and he is expected to compete for the backup running back role.

Key points

Indianapolis Colts selected Seth McGowan in the 2026 NFL draft
McGowan rushed for 730 yards at New Mexico and 824 yards at Kentucky
He will compete for the backup running back role with DJ Giddens
Ballard emphasized McGowan's physicality as a key asset

Mentioned in this story

KentuckyNew Mexico

Indianapolis ColtsSeth McGowanDJ Giddens2026 NFL draft

With their second-to-last selection in the 2026 NFL draft, the Indianapolis Colts selected Kentucky running back Seth McGowan.

McGowan rushed for 730 yards in 2024 while at New Mexico and then totaled 824 yards in the SEC with Kentucky this past season. He has 64 targets in the passing game between those two seasons,per PFF.

GM Chris Ballard noted the "physical element" that McGowan can add to the running back position.

McGowan should find himself in the mix right away for the Colts' backup running back role, competing with second-year back DJ Giddens. While there will be a certain prerequisite that must be met as a ball carrier, special teams contributions and the ability to hold up in pass protection could be differentiators in deciding this competition.

For more on McGowan, here is what two prominent draft analysts had to say.

Trevor Sikkema, Pro Football Focus

"McGowan has the build and athleticism to be a starting-caliber back at the NFL level. His explosiveness in short areas and long speed, paired with quick processing and play speed, make him a difference-maker between the tackles in power-run concepts."