The Impact of Jonathan Taylor

   Jonathan Taylor in Indianapolis 

     With the 41st overall selection in the 2020 NFL Draft, the Indianapolis Colts selected standout running back Jonathan Taylor from the University of Wisconsin. This came as a surprise to many NFL fans as the Indianapolis Colts' starting running back, Marlon Mack, posted tremendous numbers in his 2019-2020 campaign. Mack finished the year with nearly 1100 yards (11th in the NFL) and 8 TDs (9th in the NFL) in just 14 games. Mack has proven to be a speedy and versatile running back for the Colts and succeeded as their every-down back for the season.

    So, why would the Colts use their second pick in the draft a position that they already have filled? Potential.

    Jonathan Taylor's running ability poses immense potential that the Indianapolis Colts simply couldn't pass up. Furthermore, the Indianapolis Colts ran the ball the 5th most in the NFL last year and having more talented running backs can never hurt. Marlon Mack is still under his rookie contract, receiving a meager $700,000 per year, and his monetary value has certainly appreciated. This drafting could make Taylor the successor to Mack, so that the Colts could avoid paying the pricey contract that Mack would expect in free agency. Not a bad option.

    Jonathan Taylor had at least 1900 rushing yards in all 3 seasons he played for the Badgers and has the 6th most rushing yards for any NCAA football player of all time. The Badgers' running back was also apt at getting into the end zone, totaling 55 TDs during his tenure at Wisconsin. The Wisconsin Badgers benefited from Jonathan Taylor's talent as they went 31-10 during Taylor's 3 years there, highlighting Taylor's winning attitude.

    So, how will the Colts use him in their offense?

    Taylor could start off, primarily, as a third down back as he is heavier and stronger than Marlon Mack but could also sub in for Mack on long, tiresome drives to keep fresh legs on the field. Many believe Taylor is talented enough to take Mack's starting slot but it's more reasonable to assume Taylor's stardom in the NFL to come in his sophomore season.