Colts Select RB DJ Giddens in the Fifth Round of the 2025 NFL Draft
With their fifth-round pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, the Indianapolis Colts added depth to their backfield by selecting running back DJ Giddens out of Kansas State.
Giddens was one of the most productive runners in this draft class, totaling over 2,500 rushing yards and 17 touchdowns over the past two seasons. He averaged an impressive 6.0 yards per carry during that span, including 6.6 yards per attempt in 2024 alone.
While Jonathan Taylor remains the undisputed lead back for the Colts, the team has struggled to find consistent production behind him. Last season, backups Trey Sermon and Tyler Goodson failed to provide explosive plays or reliable relief. Giddens has a strong chance to contribute right away.
In addition to his rushing prowess, Giddens has shown some ability in the passing game, catching 29 passes in 2023 and 21 in 2024 for a combined 581 yards and four touchdowns—most coming off screens and checkdowns. With the Colts lacking a dependable pass-catching back, Giddens will have the opportunity to prove his value during rookie minicamp, OTAs, training camp, and the preseason. Though Taylor can catch passes, he struggled with drops last season and was primarily effective on screen plays.
This selection by GM Chris Ballard draws parallels to the 2020 draft, when the Colts picked Jonathan Taylor while Marlon Mack was still on the roster. After Mack suffered a season-ending Achilles injury in Week 1, Taylor quickly emerged as the feature back. A similar transition could be in play if Giddens impresses early.
Looking ahead, the Colts have a potential out in Taylor’s contract after 2025, which could save them $13 million. While Taylor is still just 26 and capable of elite play, his durability has been a concern. He’s missed 16 games over the last three seasons and has over 2,100 carries between college and the NFL. Following his dominant 2021 season, Taylor has seen a decline in both availability and efficiency.
If DJ Giddens can carry his college success into the NFL, the Colts may have landed a future lead back in the later rounds.
DJ Giddens Joins Query & Company
Shortly after being drafted, DJ Giddens joined Query & Company to talk about his fit in Indianapolis, what sets him apart as a running back, and how he feels about starting his career behind Jonathan Taylor.
🎧 Listen to Jake Query’s full conversation with DJ Giddens by downloading the podcast below. You can catch Query & Company live from 12–3 p.m. on 93.5/107.5 The Fan or watch and interact on the station’s YouTube channel.
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