Running back Chris Rainey is back from the NFL's abyss after signing with the Indianapolis Colts on Wednesday.
Rainey, a 2012 fifth-round draft pick of the Pittsburgh Steelers, was released by the team in January after he was charged with one count of simple battery.
A source within the Colts' organization said that injuries at running back forced the discussion to bring Rainey in for a tryout. Though Rainey's talent and 4.3 speed in the 40-yard dash were undeniable to the Indianapolis front office, his checkered past was the reason for the lack of suitors after his departure from Pittsburgh.
As a result, the Colts investigated Rainey's situation. According to the source, they found a guy who is clean off the field -- he doesn't drink or smoke -- and came up in a tough circumstance; he behaved badly and the charge eventually was dropped.
To figure out what they would be getting, the Colts had Rainey interview with coach Chuck Pagano and his staff, as well as general manager Ryan Grigson. They worked Rainey out and called people from his past before pulling the trigger and adding the speedster to the roster.
Ultimately, the Colts are giving Rainey a second chance and a clean slate. That's what they believe the running back deserves. In addition, on the team's end, there essentially is no financial risk in signing Rainey. It's a move similar to what other contending teams make as Indianapolis looks to maintain its lead in the AFC South.
Follow Ian Rapoport on Twitter @RapSheet.
