The Indianapolis Colts made a procedural roster move on Tuesday, May 19, 2026, waiving running back Jordon Vaughn to officially finalize the signing of undrafted free agent Anderson Castle. While the transaction may seem like a routine administrative adjustment, it marks an important step in shaping the Colts' depth at the running back position heading into the offseason.
The Corresponding Move
The Colts initially agreed to terms with Anderson Castle following the 2026 NFL Draft in late April, as part of their undrafted free agent haul. However, the formal roster adjustment to make room for Castle came on Tuesday with the waiver of Vaughn.
Jordon Vaughn had been with the Colts offseason roster under a reserve/future contract after spending time on the practice squad during the 2025 season. Vaughn appeared in two games last season, primarily on special teams, without recording any rushing attempts or receptions. Standing 5-foot-10 and weighing 210 pounds, Vaughn demonstrated enough promise during training camp and preseason to remain a developmental player, but the Colts have decided to move in another direction.
What Anderson Castle Brings to Indianapolis
Anderson Castle, undrafted from Duke University, stands 6-foot-1 and weighs 220 pounds. He projects as a between-the-tackles runner with the size and power suited for short-yardage and goal-line situations. His college highlights display a patient, one-cut running style, an ability to read blocks effectively, and a willingness to fall forward with contact--traits that fit the profile of a complementary back in the NFL if he can contribute on special teams.
The Colts are known for identifying value in undrafted running backs, and Castle will be given the opportunity to compete with the current backs throughout OTAs, minicamp, and training camp. To make the roster, Castle will need to show proficiency not only running the ball but also excelling on special teams and demonstrating reliable pass protection.
The Running Back Room Landscape
The Colts' running back group includes established starter Jonathan Taylor, along with depth players DJ Giddens, Ulysses Bentley IV, and Seth McGowan. Taylor remains the clear lead back when healthy and one of the top backs in the league in terms of talent.
DJ Giddens, a 2025 draft pick, showed flashes during his rookie campaign and is expected to compete for the primary backup role. Ulysses Bentley IV has drawn praise for his versatility in rushing and receiving roles out of the backfield. Seth McGowan, though less experienced, presents intriguing physical tools as a developmental option.
Anderson Castle's addition adds another layer of competition for the third and fourth running back spots, as well as for potential practice squad positioning. While Castle is far from guaranteed a spot on the 53-man roster, the Colts clearly see developmental potential worth exploring with this signing.
Roster and Salary Cap Considerations
From a financial perspective, this move has little impact on the Colts' salary cap. Vaughn was on a minimum-salary benefit contract, and Castle is expected to sign a typical undrafted free agent contract with a modest signing bonus. This transaction essentially swaps one developmental player for another without affecting the cap significantly.
Importantly, the move brings the Colts' offseason roster count to the NFL maximum of 90 players. Throughout the spring, the Colts have carefully managed their roster totals to maintain flexibility and to evaluate a broad pool of potential contributors ahead of training camp.
Training Camp Outlook
For Colts fans looking for an under-the-radar storyline, Anderson Castle is a name to watch this offseason. Undrafted free agents seldom receive extensive coverage, but Indianapolis has a strong track record of retaining undrafted players who outperform expectations. Castle will have three months through OTAs, minicamp, and training camp to prove his value to the team.
The waiving of Vaughn suggests confidence in the current running back depth chart, but the Colts remain open to adding veteran depth later in the offseason should injuries occur. For now, the focus is on the young runners under contract.
The Colts' Strategic Approach
This roster adjustment fits into the Colts' larger organizational strategy under General Manager Chris Ballard and Head Coach Shane Steichen. The team continues to build around a run-first offensive approach centered on Jonathan Taylor, with Steichen directing the offense featuring quarterback Anthony Richardson Sr.
Given Taylor's injury history, establishing reliable depth behind him is crucial to maintaining offensive effectiveness throughout the season. Adding a player like Castle, who combines size and patience with good vision, aligns with that need.
Conclusion
While Anderson Castle is a long shot to have an immediate impact this season, the move represents an important developmental opportunity. Every NFL roster has stories of humble undrafted players who exceed expectations, and Castle will now have the chance to write his own.
The Colts' current 90-man offseason roster is now set, marking the conclusion of this particular chapter. With the formal roster move complete, Castle can focus on impressing coaches and carving out his path to a roster spot.
The road ahead will be challenging, but for Anderson Castle and the Colts, the journey has officially begun.