News: 4 days agoKevin Bowen of 1075thefan.com notes that he continues to be impressed by what McGowan is showing at running back thus far in training camp.
Spin: At this stage, McGowan, whom the Colts took in the seventh round of the 2026 NFL, is competing with DJ Giddens for slotting behind undisputed top back Jonathan Taylor. While the player who emerges as the team's No. 2 backfield option will hold limited fantasy lineup appeal as long as Taylor is healthy, his backup situation is worth monitoring ahead of Week 1 in the event Taylor misses time this season for any reason.
ESPN Fantasy Projection: McGowan was selected by the Colts in the seventh round of April's draft. McGowan is an older prospect (25), having bounced around five schools due to an off-field issue in 2021 that led to jail time and a dismissal from Oklahoma. He slowly rebuilt his career and peaked with 1,100 yards and six TDs at New Mexico State in 2024 prior to delivering 851 yards and 12 TDs at Kentucky last season. His efficiency is hit or miss, as his career 2.65 YAC is very poor, but his 4.2 forced missed tackle rate is strong. He's been effective in the passing game, as well, so there's some hope for a pro level impact. McGowan impressed at the combine, posting the top vertical and broad jump in this RB rookie class and running a solid 4.49 40-yard dash at 223 pounds. McGowan will battle DJ Giddens for primary backup duties behind Jonathan Taylor, so it's possible he finds his way to some value as an insurance hold.