With a new multi-year contract in hand, Indianapolis Colts running back Jonathan Taylor was on the field in the 23-16 Week 5 win over the Tennessee Titans.
Taylor, who inked a new three-year, $42 million contract extension on Saturday, said his deal represents a step forward for the running back market.
“I definitely think it is [a shift],” Taylor said after the game, via ESPN. “Anytime a running back can go out there and perform but also have some security, it just shows that running backs are essential.”
The contract ended a rancorous offseason, which included a trade request and an elongated stint on the physically unable to perform list due to an ankle injury suffered last season.
“It’s a heavy burden, particularly when you’re unwell and unable to pursue your passions,” Taylor expressed. “It’s challenging. It pressures you and places you in difficult mental states, making a strong support system essential.”
Taylor was given the green light to return to practice last week and made his comeback to the lineup on Sunday. In his return, he only played 10 snaps, making six carries for 18 yards and catching a 16-yard pass. This was Taylor’s first game in 295 days, with his last game being in Week 15, 2022, against MIN.
Fellow running back Zack Moss spearheaded the divisional win, rushing for a career-high 165 yards and two touchdowns. Moss’ 195 scrimmage yards were the most by a Colts player since Taylor’s 204 in Week 11, 2021.
Taylor believes that he and Moss could form a formidable pair.
“He said, “I believe it can become quite frightening. You all have been experiencing it over the past few weeks. Now, it’s my responsibility to keep doing my part and keep supporting this team.”
With rookie quarterback Anthony Richardson expected to miss at least a month, the Colts will likely lean heavily on the Taylor-Moss backfield moving forward.
