When the Colts finally are able to achieve the healthier play-selection balance they seek, you can expect to continue to see both Trent Richardson and Ahmad Bradshaw combining efforts in the offensive backfield.

In fact, Richardson – who the Colts traded a first-round pick to Cleveland to acquire last season – would prefer it that way.

"I think it's going to be a good, equal load," Richardson said. "Ahmad knows that once I get tired or once I'm winded, when I look to that sideline or he looks to the sideline, we know how to complement each other. It can be a drive where we have it going. I might have to look to the sideline and say, 'Come get me.' And I know if he does that to go get him. We work well together."

"From game to game, it'll be different depending on the score and how we're using different personnel groups," coach Chuck Pagano said.

"They're both more than capable of being every-down backs. They're both good in pass protection. They're both good out of the backfield. Whether it's Ahmad out there or Trent out there, I feel good about both those guys."