Jonathan Taylor Called Colts’ Top Roster Strength

Clay Highlights Colts’ Running Back As Top Asset

ESPN analyst Mike Clay singled out the Indianapolis Colts’ running back spot as the team’s biggest roster strength for the upcoming campaign. His pick centers on Jonathan Taylor, labeling the veteran back as the focal point of the unit. Clay’s assessment underscores how the Colts’ depth elsewhere is buoyed by a reliable ground game.

Taylor’s 2025 Production Speaks For Itself

Taylor finished the previous season with 1,585 rushing yards, maintaining an explosive touch despite heavier defensive attention. He posted a ninth‑best yards‑per‑carry average and shared third‑place for 10+‑yard rushes, according to PFF metrics. Additionally, Head Coach Shane Steichen increased Taylor’s role in the passing attack, giving him more targets and opportunities.

What Clays Said About Taylor’s Impact

Clay praised Taylor as “one of the league’s best backs,” noting a standout 2025 season where Taylor led the NFL in carries and touchdowns while placing in the top three for touches and rushing yardage. The analyst added that Taylor also ranked among the top 10 backs in routes, targets, catches, and receiving yards, setting career highs in each category. This surge came despite a notable dip in production when quarterback Daniel Jones suffered a season‑ending Achilles injury in Week 14.

Taylor Powers The Entire Colts Offense

The Colts’ offense relies heavily on Taylor to set the table, using his consistent runs to avoid long‑down situations and keep defenses honest. A steady ground attack opens up play‑calling for Steichen, allowing the team to dial up pass options without sacrificing balance. In effect, Taylor’s workload makes him synonymous with the Colts’ entire running‑back corps.

Depth Questions Remain At The Backfield

While Taylor anchors the position, the depth behind him is uncertain. DJ Giddens, a rookie who saw limited action in 2025, and Seth McGowan, a seventh‑round 2026 draft pick, are slated to compete for the backup role. Inexperience at these spots creates potential instability until their performance can be proven on the field. Clay also noted a “biggest weakness” for the Colts, though specifics were not detailed in the report.

Looking Ahead

With Taylor’s proven track record and heavy workload, the Colts will lean on him as the focal point of their rushing attack. The lack of proven depth could become a liability if injuries strike, especially given the team’s reliance on a steady run game. Fans and analysts will watch how the backfield develops as the season approaches, aiming to see if the talent pool can complement Taylor’s elite play.