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The Indianapolis Colts shocked the league and traded up to the No. 41 pick to take Wisconsin running back Jonathan Taylor. While this pick may have come as a surprise to many, Taylor is one of the best and most decorated players in this draft and obviously caught the eye of Chris Ballard.
Taylor may also be one of the most interesting players in the draft as well. Here are five things to know about about the Colts’ new running back in Taylor:
1. Many unique interests including astrophysics and yoga
When Jonathan Taylor was considering his options after high school, he toured Harvard and almost fed his love for astrophysics like his idol, Neil deGrasse Tyson. His parents even got him a telescope as a graduation present. He decided to go to Wisconsin who recruited him heavily out of Salem, New Jersey. He is also very focused on yoga and does a variety of stretches before practices and games.
2. One of the most decorated players in the draft
Taylor’s long list of accomplishments at Wisconsin include three-time All-American selection, three first-team All-Big Ten selections, two Big Ten Running Back of the Year selections and two Doak Walker Award wins as the best running back in the nation. He also finished fourth all-time in FBS rushing yards with 6,174.
3. Almost a Scarlet Knight
Jonathan Taylor is obviously very good at football, but he was a high school track phenom as well. In fact, he was recruited by Rutgers for football and track and actually committed to Rutgers before a Wisconsin scout attended a track meet in New Jersey to see him run. Shortly after, Taylor recommitted from Rutgers and officially committed to the Badgers.
4. Did not take long for Taylor to pop
When Taylor walked into Madison, WI in 2017, he was fifth on the depth chart to start training camp. That designation did not last long for Taylor however. He was quick to impress coaches and eventually found his way into the starting role. He almost cracked 2,000 yards in his freshman year and had 13 touchdowns.
5. Wise beyond his years
Taylor’s teammates and coaches have nothing but praise for the 21-year-old, high powered back who is wise beyond his years. As a philosophy major, he loves to ask questions and many have noted his curiosity about the world. “He’s a great player, but he is one unique guy off the field,” said Badgers star offensive guard Beau Benzschawel in 2017. “You talk to him, and it’s like you’re talking to a 30-year-old.”
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