Trey Sermon isn’t considered a superstar by any means and isn’t frequently discussed among NFL fans. However, the Indianapolis Colts’ running back could be poised for a breakout season in 2024.
During this year’s training camp, Sermon will vie for the No. 2 running back position behind starter Jonathan Taylor. Should he secure the spot, the former third-round draft pick might become a significant contribuTrey Sermontor for the Colts.
### Former Big Ten Star Could Shine with the Colts
#### Career at Oklahoma
Trey Sermon began his college career with the Oklahoma Sooners, starting three out of 14 games as a freshman and earning the title of Big 12 Offensive Freshman of the Year with 744 rushing yards and five touchdowns. In his sophomore year, Sermon rushed for 947 yards and 13 touchdowns and caught 12 passes for 181 yards. Despite an injury-shortened junior season in 2019, he managed to start four games and averaged 7.1 yards per carry.
#### Star at Ohio State
Sermon transferred to Ohio State for his final college season in 2020, where he amassed 870 rushing yards, four touchdowns, and 12 receptions. His standout performance came in the Big Ten Championship Game against Northwestern, where he rushed for a record-breaking 331 yards. He followed this up with 193 rushing yards and a touchdown in the Sugar Bowl victory over Clemson. Unfortunately, an injury in the National Championship Game against Alabama cut his game short.
### Potential Impact Player for the Colts?
Drafted by the San Francisco 49ers in the third round of the 2021 NFL Draft, Sermon had brief stints with the 49ers and Philadelphia Eagles before signing with the Colts last year. In 2023, he played 14 games for Indianapolis, recording 35 carries for 160 rushing yards.
Jonathan Taylor is firmly established as the Colts’ starting running back. However, the competition for the primary backup spot is open. Zack Moss, who excelled in this role last season, is now with the Cincinnati Bengals. Sermon will compete against Evan Hull and Tyler Goodson for the backup position. Hull, a fifth-round pick in the 2023 draft, missed most of his rookie season due to a meniscus injury. Goodson, seeking redemption after dropping a crucial pass in Week 18 against the Houston Texans, will also be in the mix.
Replacing Moss, who rushed for 794 yards and five touchdowns last season, will be challenging. Yet, Sermon has shown potential, notably in a Week 15 game against the Pittsburgh Steelers where he rushed for 88 yards. He also had a career-long 27-yard run against the Las Vegas Raiders. Given these flashes of brilliance, Sermon might be on the verge of a breakout season.
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