Colts star Jonathan Taylor is still getting ultimate respect after quiet season
The Indianapolis Colts moved on from Frank Reich in favor of Shane Steichen in hopes of getting over the hump and competing in a highly competitive AFC that's only getting better and better. Steichen walks into a situation where patience will likely be emphasized, especially in year-one. That's expected with rookie quarterback Anthony Richardson set […]
The Indianapolis Colts moved on from Frank Reich in favor of Shane Steichen in hopes of getting over the hump and competing in a highly competitive AFC that's only getting better and better.
Steichen walks into a situation where patience will likely be emphasized, especially in year-one. That's expected with rookie quarterback Anthony Richardson set to take over behind center during his first season.
However, there is still talent on the roster that could help make the Colts make a lot of noise right out of the gate. Including running back Jonathan Taylor, offensive lineman Quenton Nelson, and defensive lineman DeForest Buckner.
In regards to Taylor, the All-Pro rusher had a bit of a down year in 2022. He struggled with injuries, there was a coaching change, and multiple quarterbacks passing and handing him the ball.
Taylor only played in 11 games last season. He posted career-lows in yards (861) and touchdowns (four). It was not the season that the Colts star wanted after earning first-team All-Pro honors a season prior.
Still, Taylor is still considered to be among the best in football. Pro Football Focus ranks the Colts' back just outside the top-10 in players under the age of 25 in the NFL. Additionally, he's the highest-ranked running back on the list.
Taylor took a step back last season with a 71.5 rushing grade, a far cry from his 90.0 rushing grade in 2021. But much of his lack of production stemmed from things outside of his control. The Colts’ offensive line was poor last year, as was their offense overall. Taylor missed out on the 1,000-yard mark for the first time since his freshman season of high school, but even with the poor offensive line, he still rushed for 861 yards in 11 games — a pace that would have still hit 1,000 yards in a full season. When fully healthy, Taylor is still one of the best young players in the game.
The Indianapolis Colts need Taylor to be at his best in 2023. That would help Richardson transition to the NFL, Steichen unlock his offensive scheme, and potentially lead to more wins on the schedule.
