McGowan logged his first NFL carries in Week 2, though they totaled 0 yards. In Week 3, he carried four times for 14 yards. Week 4 saw six carries for 31 yards plus one reception for seven yards, and in Week 5 he had five rushing attempts for 16 yards along with a 3-yard catch. He has also remained a key kickoff return option for the Colts.
Why does Seth McGowan play?
NFL teams cannot rely on a single running back for every snap all season. There needs to be a secondary option. Indianapolis didn’t enter the season with a proven backup, instead selecting McGowan in the seventh round of the 2026 NFL Draft from Kentucky and keeping him as a potential second option after a promising preseason. McGowan did not have a carry in Week 1 but did record a catch and five kickoff returns in his NFL debut. Since then, he has been used in a secondary role consistently, and that approach will likely continue as long as both Taylor and McGowan are healthy. A two-back approach can be more effective than relying solely on Taylor, especially if McGowan can contribute when needed.
Jonathan Taylor’s start to the season has been challenging. Through five games, he has 101 rushing attempts for 398 yards, a pace that would be a career-worst 3.9 yards per carry. He does have six rushing touchdowns and 13 receptions for 106 yards, indicating some productivity, but his rushing efficiency has dipped. With injuries impacting the offense, defenses may have a clearer game plan on where to focus. The best path forward for Indy is to help Taylor regain his form, with McGowan contributing as available.
