With the shocking trade up to pick No. 41 and the selection of running back Jonathan Taylor from Wisconsin, Indianapolis Colts general manager Chris Ballard has once again stuck to his philosophy of taking the best player available. Taylor is a dynamic playmaker, but his addition is somewhat puzzling.
[lawrence-related id=43061]
With an already crowded backfield of Marlon Mack, Nyheim Hines and Jordan Wilkins, to add another back seems like a luxury—not to mention trading up three spots to get him. Also, Mack came off a career year with 1,091 rushing yards and eight rushing touchdowns.
The Colts’ sudden success in the run game has mostly contributed to their dominant offensive line play up front, but Mack has played a huge part in that success as well. Taylor will no doubt have success in this system too.
Where Taylor differs from Mack is his experience and success entering the league. Taylor was a two-time first-team All-American at Wisconsin and finished fourth all-time in FBS rushing yards with 6,174 career yards.
This pick is nothing to be upset over, but it might be a sign that the Colts will not re-sign Mack as he heads into the last year of his contract. If that’s the case, this was a great pick for building into the future at the running back position.
Another guy who may be on the hot seat is Wilkins, who has filled in as the third back in this system. While Wilkins has been a solid player who has had some big plays, he has been used sparingly and will be a free agent after the 2021 season.
We don’t yet know how the Colts will implement these backs in the backfield but given the draft capital, talent and the fact that the Colts traded up for him, this selection is likely to send some waves in running back room.
[lawrence-related id=43084,43070]