The Indianapolis Colts may have some struggles at quarterback, but there's one player that has Future Hall-of-Famer written all over him. Jonathan Taylor is an incredible running back, consistently rated among the best in the league. His only real problem is injuries; he's had to spend some time off the field, but to be fair, he's also been the only real running back the Colts could rely on. Hopefully, with the additions of Khalil Herbert and DJ Giddens will help. Taylor won't be carrying the load completely on his own, and if Taylor is able to stay healthy through all 17 games?
Well, the league better watch out.
Jonathan Taylor is an explosive playmaker who consistently puts up big numbers. He was named one of the top 10 running backs in the league last season, which ended with four straight 100-yard rushing performances, most notably racking up an insane 218 yards the Colts' Week 16 win over the Tennessee Titans.
Taylor finished with over 1,400 rushing yards, having played in only 14 games, giving him his best season since 2021. That year, he ran for 1,800 yards, but he didn't miss any games that season. Last season, he was essentially carrying the run game entirely on his own, which obviously can put a lot of stress on his body. The hope is that this year, with less pressure for him to be doing literally everything, he'll be able to stay healthy... and land a much-deserved award.
Pro Football Network gave a candidate for each team to win Offensive Player of the Year, and to no one's surprise, Taylor is their pick for the Colts.
"In the midst of all of their quarterback instability, one thing has been constant for the Indianapolis Colts’ offense: Jonathan Taylor putting up big numbers.Pro Football Network
Granted, health has been an issue for Taylor over the years. However, he finished fourth in the NFL with 1,431 rushing yards last season, despite missing three games due to injury. If he can stay healthy for a full 17 games, there’s no telling what his numbers could look like."
There's no doubt Taylor will have some steep competition; also named as candidates are superstars like Patrick Mahomes and Saquon Barkley - who, you might recall, won the honor last year. But if Taylor can stay healthy and play in every game, while also putting up numbers like last season?
You never know. Saquon Barkley might have competition for the best running back in the league.