Rhodes is set to become an unrestricted free agent when free agency begins March 3 and folks will soon find out just how valuable this guy is. There is a good chance that an integral part of the Colts offense this season could be missing from the well-oiled machine next season when free agency hits.

The 5-foot-9, 203-pound versatile back has done it all for the Colts and a number of teams in the league have taken notice.

Well-rounded back

In 2001, Rhodes was called upon as a rookie to carry the load when star RB Edgerrin James went down with a season-ending knee injury in game six. Rhodes rushed for 1,104 yards and nine touchdowns that year. He added another 224 yards receiving and 356 yards and a touchdown on kick-returns. Proving that he is well-rounded and can be a featured back at the pro level.

Rhodes sustained a torn anterior cruciate knee ligament in 2002 and was placed on injured reserve before the start of the season. He returned to action the following year and settled into his role of relieving James and returning kicks on special-teams.

Over the next two seasons, Rhodes racked up over 2,000 yards returning kicks while continuing to spell James in the backfield.

Sharing RB duties

That brings us to the 2006 season. With James bolting off to Arizona, money in hand, it appeared that Rhodes would have another chance to be the team's featured back, but the organization had other plans drafting rookie RB Joseph Addai in the first round. Rhodes found himself once again competing for playing time and sharing the backfield.

Instead of Rhodes getting down on himself about having to share time in the backfield with of all things a rookie, he took a more positive approach to the game.

"Whatever they ask of me, I am going to do it," Rhodes said. "I'm not the type of guy that is going to walk up and tell the coaches what they should do with me. I know what my strengths are and they know as well. I can do it all, and they will utilize me how they think is best."

The Colts did just that in 2006.

Rhodes rushed for 641 yards and five touchdowns during the regular season while splitting time with Addai. Rhodes led all rushers in the postseason with 306 yards, which include his MVP-type performance in the Super Bowl where he rushed for a 113 yards and a touchdown.

Colts want him back

Rhodes brings a lot to the table. He's a solid runner, who plays bigger than his size would indicate, a good receiver out of the backfield, and a special-teams standout.

His veteran leadership in the locker room is unparallel. You would be hard pressed to find a team player like Rhodes.

There is no question that the Colts organization would like to retain Rhodes, but there are a number of teams who are likely to come calling.

Bengals, Lions and Rams

One team to keep an eye on is the Cincinnati Bengals. The Bengals will be in the market for a change-of-pace back because their own RB Kenny Watson is an unrestricted free agent himself.

Rhodes would be a considerable upgrade, but won't come at a bargain price. If the Bengals are truly searching for some relief for Rudi Johnson, they may want to spell it R-H-O-D-E-S.

With the uncertainty surrounding the return of RB Kevin Jones for the 2007 season, the Detroit Lions are another team that could have an interest. Rhodes would be perfect for the Lions offense due to his shiftiness and ability to catch the football.

According to a team source, the Rams expect Marshall Faulk to call it quits and that the team will be in the market for a backup running back like Rhodes in free agency and the draft.

The Rams are looking for a running back combination similar to Jacksonville's, a potent one-two punch with Fred Taylor and Maurice Jones-Drew carrying the rock.

Steven Jackson and Rhodes would make for a nice pair in the Rams' backfield. So add the Rams to the list of teams who will have their eyes on back.

The bottom line is the Colts will make every effort to re-sign Rhodes because he is that valuable to the team. However, the club won't get into a bidding war to try and keep the running back in Indy.

Let free agency begin!