The Indianapolis Colts are facing a delicate balance as they navigate the future of their star running back, Jonathan Taylor. Taylor's exceptional performance over the past two seasons has been undeniable, with 3,016 rushing yards and 29 touchdowns, solidifying his status as one of the top running backs in the NFL. However, the team's awareness of the need for long-term sustainability for their star player is a pressing concern.
Taylor's workload has been immense, ranking second in the NFL with 626 rushing attempts since 2024 and taking a staggering 46% of the team's offensive touches last year. This heavy usage has undoubtedly contributed to his elite production, but it also raises questions about the potential strain on his body and the team's strategy for the future.
Running backs coach DeAndre Smith acknowledges the need to lighten Taylor's workload, stating, 'We definitely need to find ways to take some of that workload off him.' The challenge lies in finding a reliable No. 2 running back who can step up and share the load. Since Zack Moss' departure, the Colts have struggled to find a suitable replacement, with minimal investments in the position and mixed results from veteran signings like Trey Sermon and Khalil Herbert.
The current running back room is arguably the thinnest in the league, with limited options for a primary backup. The leading candidates for the backup role are DJ Giddens and Seth McGowan, both of whom have shown promise but have yet to prove themselves at the NFL level. Giddens, a 2025 fifth-rounder, carried the ball just 26 times for 96 yards as a rookie, while McGowan's college numbers are relatively underwhelming.
The Colts could consider distributing Taylor's receiving workload, but they must also balance the need to keep their best player on the field. Giddens, with his big play potential and 6.0 yards per carry average at Kansas State, could be the key to an explosive change-of-pace back. The team might also explore roster cuts to find a more proven player to rotate in with Taylor.
In my opinion, the Colts' strategy should focus on finding a reliable No. 2 running back who can share the workload and provide a change-of-pace option. This approach would not only help Taylor's long-term sustainability but also ensure the team's success in the future. The challenge is to strike a balance between maintaining Taylor's elite production and building a robust running back room for the years to come.
