NFL Draft 2020: Colts find running back of the future in Jonathan Taylor

The Indianapolis Colts continue to rebuild on the offensive side of the ball by drafting one of the most prolific running backs ever in Jonathan Taylor.

The Colts have grown through a huge identity shift on the offensive side of the ball in this offseason. They got their new temporary starting quarterback in Phillip Rivers and drafted a new impact receiver in USC’s Michael Pittman. The Colts made the trade with the Browns to select their running back of the future in Wisconsin running back Jonathan Taylor.

The Badgers have created some impact running backs that impacted the NCAA and then make an impact in the NFL.

In the three seasons as the starting running back for the Badgers, Taylor rushed for 6,174 yards (sixth-most in NCAA history) and 50 touchdowns on 926 carries. He won the Doak Walker Award in 2018 and 2019.

Now the former Badgers prestigious running back will go to the Colts where he could create the same impact in the NFL.

The Colts relied on the rushing game significantly due to the lack of arm strength that starting quarterback Jacoby Brissett possessed. Last season, starting running back Marlon Mack rushed for 1,091 yards and eight touchdowns on 247 carries. He averaged 4.4 yards per carry behind a stout offensive line.

Taylor possesses power in his runs, patience to let his offensive line proceed with their blocks, and great burst past the line of scrimmage. He averaged 6.3 yards per carry in his junior season in 2019. He wasn’t a productive player in the passing game until this past season when he caught 26 passes for 252 yards and five touchdowns. His biggest concern, however, was his fumbling issues which can be a big concern when he embraces contact than avoid it.

Grade: A-

Mack’s contract expires after the offseason of 2021 after this upcoming season. In the first season, Taylor and Mack can split reps as a one-two punch. The Colts trading up and drafting Taylor will fit the pro-style and traditional running back especially with Phillip Rivers.