Running Back – Northwestern
5’10” 209 lbs
5th Round – 41st Pick (176th Overall) – Indianapolis Colts
Chosen in the fifth round of the 2023 NFL Draft, Northwestern running back Evan Hull heads to the Indianapolis Colts. Hull is a well-rounded back with a good combination of size and speed. He stands at 5’10 and 209 pounds and ran a 4.47 40-yard dash at the NFL Combine. Furthermore, he displayed athleticism that scored him in the 80th percentile of Speed Score, Burst Score, and Agility score. Hull finished his senior year at Northwestern with 913 yards rushing, 546 yards receiving, and seven touchdowns. Also, he led the Wildcats in rushing each of the last two seasons.
Hull is a talented runner who keeps his pads square at the line of scrimmage. Additionally, he runs low to the ground and has patience as a runner. He is fantastic on screens proven by his 17.3% target share in 2022. Furthermore, Hull proved his worth as a kick returner in 2022 by averaging 20.1 yards per return. However, Hull can be slowed down by arm tackles and lacks explosiveness. He also only averaged 4.1 YPC in 2022 and is a below-average pass blocker. Additionally, he is not good in special teams coverage.
Fantasy Football Outlook
Hull will compete for the backup role against veterans Zack Moss and Deon Jackson. Additionally, Hull could fill the pass-catching role that Nyheim Hines vacated. Even so, Hull’s value is too low to draft in redraft leagues. Only leagues with a deep bench should draft Hull or if you have already drafted Jonathan Taylor.
If Hull wins the backup role, he will provide occasional value in PPR leagues as a potential flex play. Additionally, if given the chance to start, he could provide value as a startable RB2. However, Hull is only viewed as a pass catcher out of the backfield at this time. Unfortunately, quarterback Anthony Richardson’s short-yardage accuracy is poor. Hull needs playing time as well as an improvement from his quarterback to reach his max value not just in the NFL, but for fantasy football purposes.
Dynasty Outlook
Hull faces an uphill battle for touches in the Colts’ backfield. Yet, his talent is undeniable, which should get him on the field at some point. Hull’s role is uncertain due to a crowded backfield. But, dynasty fantasy football managers should still consider drafting him in the 3rd or 4th round of rookie drafts, as he is in line for playing time if Taylor cannot play.
Also, while Taylor is likely to sign a contract extension soon, Zack Moss and Deon Jackson will be free agents in 2024. Hull will have no problem carving a role for himself over the next two years. His long-term value as a receiver out of the backfield makes him an intriguing option in rookie drafts. Improving as a pass blocker could increase his usage on passing downs, making him a more valuable asset in PPR leagues.
Although his short-term role with the Colts is uncertain, Hull’s talent and athleticism make him an intriguing prospect worth monitoring.
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