Colts Running Back Jonathan Taylor Set for Monumental Bounce-Back Season
The Indianapolis Colts are gearing up for what promises to be a pivotal 2024 NFL season. With a slew of young talent, including quarterback Anthony Richardson, receiver Josh Downs, and cornerback JuJu Brents, all eyes are on what this team will look like with another campaign under head coach Shane Steichen. However, it’s not just the youth that will play a crucial role in the Colts’ success – veterans like wide receiver Michael Pittman Jr., defensive tackle DeForest Buckner, and guard Quenton Nelson will also be key contributors. But one player, in particular, is poised for a massive comeback: running back Jonathan Taylor.
Taylor’s career has been a rollercoaster ride, with a 2021 rushing title followed by a disappointing 2022 and 2023. However, a new contract and a strong finish to last season (487 yards and six touchdowns over his final five games) have set the stage for a monster 2024.
AFC Executives and Scouts Praise Colts’ Jonathan Taylor
According to a top-10 list compiled by ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler, Taylor ranks fifth among NFL running backs, with executives and scouts praising his explosive combination of size and straight-line speed. One AFC scout noted, “Still explosive – last year he was beat up. The Colts eased him into things. But he’s probably the best combination of size and straight-line speed right now.”
With Richardson under center, Taylor could see huge results from the residual effects of the young quarterback’s play. Potentially becoming one of the NFL’s deadliest offensive duos, Taylor could thrive as the bell-cow back, even with potentially less usage due to Richardson’s running ability, which could prolong his career.
Jonathan Taylor Looks to Bounce Back in 2024
Taylor has already racked up 4,582 rushing yards, 5,537 all-purpose yards, and 44 all-purpose touchdowns through 53 games. If things line up for Taylor as Indianapolis hopes they will, he could return to those types of numbers, solidifying his position as one of the NFL’s top running backs.
With a new contract, a healthy quarterback, and a revamped offense, Taylor is primed for a massive bounce-back season. If the Colts can stay consistent and Richardson remains on the field, Taylor could return to form as the dominant force he once was.
