The Indianapolis Colts are facing a delicate situation with their star running back, Jonathan Taylor. Taylor has been a workhorse for the team, carrying the ball over 300 times in each of the last two seasons, amassing an impressive 3,016 yards and 29 touchdowns. However, the team's running backs coach, DeAndre Smith, is advocating for a strategic shift in usage to mitigate the risk of injury and ensure Taylor's long-term health.
Smith highlights the correlation between high usage and injury risk, emphasizing the need to find alternative options to distribute the workload. By reducing Taylor's carries, the team aims to maintain a strong running game while also providing him with much-needed rest during games. This approach is particularly crucial given Taylor's recent injury history, having missed three games in 2024 and 13 games over the previous two seasons.
The Colts currently lack a clear-cut solution on their roster. DJ Giddens, a 2025 fifth-round draft pick, only carried the ball 26 times as a rookie, and Seth McGowan, a 2026 seventh-round draft pick, has yet to make a significant impact. The depth chart is further filled with undrafted free agents, leaving the team with limited options if these players don't step up during training camp.
The pressure is on the Colts to find a suitable replacement for Taylor's workload. If they fail to identify a reliable option quickly, they may need to explore external solutions to address the concerns raised by Smith. The team's strategy will be crucial in determining Taylor's long-term role and the overall success of the running game in the upcoming season.
