The Indianapolis Colts let the ageless Frank Gore walk in free agency, implying that running back Marlon Mack could be let loose to command the Colts' backfield in 2018.

Mack didn't exactly make it through the draft unscathed -- the Colts took two backs -- but it could've been worse.

Indy drafted Nyheim Hines in the fourth and Jordan Wilkins in the fifth. It's not like Mack is going to be handed an every-down role, but again, his outlook is a lot better than it would've been if the Colts grabbed a running back earlier in the draft, something many mock drafts had them doing. On top of that, the Colts spent their sixth overall pick on an offensive lineman, landing guard Quenton Nelson, a player who could pave the way in the ground game.

If Andrew Luck is healthy, the Colts should have a fantasy-friendly offense, and if Mack is the starter, he'll certainly have value.

Mack may not be out of the woods just yet. It wouldn't be shocking to see the Colts pursue C.J. Anderson or DeMarco Murray, two of the better backs remaining in free agency. But if the Colts' depth chart stays as is, Mack will be the favorite for lead-back duties in Indy.