Central Michigan's Zurlon Tipton Signs With Indianapolis Colts

Former Central Michigan running back wasn't selected in the 2014 NFL Draft, but shortly after the final pick was made Tipton found a landing spot, signing with the Indianapolis Colts as an undrafted free agent.

Tipton had a solid career at CMU, despite injuries cut what would have been a strong senior season short. Tipton burst onto the scene in 2012 after two years as a backup with a 1,492 yard and 19 touchdown season. He was named second team All-MAC that year. Unfortunately for Tipton, and the Chippewas, the Detroit native broke his ankle in the first quarter of the season opener vs. Michigan.

Rather than applying for a medical redshirt and getting back a year of eligibility, Tipton rehabbed and returned to the field in incredible time, making it back after just seven games out. In the final four games of the season Tipton ran for 388 yards and eight touchdowns on 74 carries, including a 216 yard, four touchdown performance vs Eastern Michigan in the season finale.

At 6-foot, 216 pounds, Tipton is a punishing runner. While his 4.69 40=yard dash at his pro day didn't dazzle anyone, Tipton isn't being signed to be a burner style running back. He has excellent field vision, and attacks the hole with raw power. He possesses a mean stiff arm that can knock a defender off his feet, and pumps his legs through contact churning out extra yards at the end of the run.

For a bigger back, he's also got soft hands, and is a plus blocker. But he's a run-straight-up style back, which tends to lead to injuries in the NFL. He's also lacking in elusiveness, isn't the type of back to wiggle his way out tight situations and relies almost exclusively on his power to bust off runs.

He would excel as a third-down and redzone running back for the Colts, but has a crowded field of competition to make the roster for the Colts.

Tipton joins fellow former MAC running back, Bo Oliver of Buffalo, who signed Saturday with the Colts as well.