Looking Back: How the Colts Landed Jonathan Taylor
The Indianapolis Colts selected standout running back Jonathan Taylor with the 41st overall pick in the 2020 NFL Draft—a selection they acquired from the Cleveland Browns in a strategic Day 2 trade. To move up three spots, Indianapolis sent picks No. 44 and 160 to Cleveland, aiming to leapfrog the Jacksonville Jaguars, who were rumored to have interest in Taylor. The move paid off: the Jaguars instead took wide receiver Laviska Shenault, while the Browns’ picks didn’t yield notable returns.
This trade is just one example of general manager Chris Ballard’s strong draft track record. Ballard has found late-round gems like linebacker Zaire Franklin (7th round, 2018) and added reliable contributors like wide receiver Josh Downs (3rd round, 2023). But trading up for Taylor stands out as a masterstroke.
Taylor’s Career in Indianapolis
From the moment he arrived in Indy, Taylor made his presence felt. As a rookie, he rushed for 1,169 yards and 11 touchdowns, earning PFWA All-Rookie Team honors. His breakout came in 2021, when he led the NFL in both rushing yards (1,811) and rushing touchdowns (18), earning First-Team All-Pro recognition and finishing as the runner-up for Offensive Player of the Year.
Injuries slowed him in 2022 and 2023, keeping him under 900 yards in both seasons. However, Taylor bounced back in 2024 with 1,431 rushing yards and 11 touchdowns, earning his second Pro Bowl nod and proving once again why he’s among the league’s elite.
Despite the team’s 8-9 record and another playoff miss, Taylor remained a bright spot and continues to build his legacy alongside Colts greats like Eric Dickerson, Marshall Faulk, and Edgerrin James.
What to Expect in 2025
Trading up for Taylor wasn’t just one of the top moves in Chris Ballard’s tenure—it’s one of the best decisions in franchise history. Now entering his sixth season, Taylor is already considered a Colts legend.
If he stays healthy, there’s every reason to believe he’ll deliver another elite performance in 2025. ESPN’s Mike Clay projects Taylor will log 301 carries for 1,392 rushing yards and 10 touchdowns—an average of 4.6 yards per attempt across 14 games, matching his total from last season.
With a quarterback competition between Anthony Richardson and Daniel Jones underway, the Colts will rely heavily on Taylor’s consistent production. While weapons like Michael Pittman Jr., Josh Downs, Alec Pierce, and rookie Tyler Warren add depth to the offense, Taylor remains Indy’s most dangerous and dependable playmaker.
Expect another strong year from No. 28—provided he can steer clear of injuries, the Colts’ offense will once again revolve around their star back.
Leave a Reply