Fantasy football: Where to draft Indianapolis Colts RB Jonathan Taylor

[gambcom-standard rankid=”3011″ ]

Indianapolis Colts RB Jonathan Taylor enters his 5th NFL season after being drafted in the 2nd round of the 2020 NFL Draft out of Wisconsin. He led the league in rushing yards (1,811), rushing TDs (18) and rushing yards per game (106.5) in 2021-22, resulting in his 1st All-pro selection. He hasn’t cracked 1,000 yards since between injuries and contract disputes. Below, we look at Jonathan Taylor’s 2024 fantasy football average draft position (ADP) and where you should draft him.

Taylor is still viewed as a strong RB1 by many, but he’s only delivered the one elite season in 2021. Injuries have limited him, with Taylor missing 13 of his last 34 games. His fantasy production has dipped, averaging 13.3 points in 2022-23 and 15.6 the next season. While his talent remains undeniable, the presence of QB Anthony Richardson may further limit Taylor’s receiving work and touchdowns, capping his upside for 2024.

WIN YOUR FANTASY FOOTBALL LEAGUE!
The Huddle has been turning players like you into winners for over 25 years. This season, it’s your turn. Custom fantasy football rankings, sleepers and tools are just a click away. Save 25% off the Internet’s best-kept secret. Subscribe now!

Jonathan Taylor’s ADP: 12.63

(ADP data courtesy of MyFantasyLeague.com; last updated at time of this publishing – ADPs continually change as more drafts occur)

Taylor’s 12.63 ADP in redraft leagues places him in the range of 1st to 2nd round, depending on the size of the league.

Taylor’s ADP ranks 4th among running backs. San Francisco’s Christian McCaffrey is not only the No. 1 back, but he’s the No. 1 player overall with an ADP of 2,00. Atlanta’s Bijan Robinson (6.20) is the No. 2 running back, while the Jets’ Breece Hall (6.88) checks in at No. 3. Philadelphia’s Saquon Barkley (14.47) and Detroit’s Jahmyr Gibbs (16.56) round out the top 6.

[gambcom-standard rankid=”3012″ ]

Jonathan Taylor’s 2023-24 stats

Games: 10

Carries | rushing yards: 169 | 741

Rushing touchdowns: 7

Receptions | receiving yards: 19 | 153

Receiving touchdowns: 1

FOOTBALL NEVER STOPS
Live games, analysis and more 7 days a week: Get ESPN+

Where should you draft Taylor?

Taylor enters the upcoming season with high expectations, but recent performance suggests caution. After an elite 2021 season where he dominated as the overall RB1, Taylor’s production has dipped. He averaged just 13.3 fantasy points per game in 2022 and 15.6 last season. While those numbers aren’t bad, they fall short for a player once considered a top-tier RB.

Taylor’s efficiency has also declined. His yards per carry dropped to 4.4 in 2023, and his explosive plays have significantly decreased. He ranked 37th in percentage of carries going for 15+ yards, down from 9th in 2021. This dip in big plays has hurt his overall fantasy value.

The addition of Richardson at quarterback brings a mixed outlook for Taylor. Richardson’s mobility could help open up rushing lanes for Taylor, but it also presents challenges. Taylor is already limited as a receiver, and Richardson’s running ability could cut into Taylor’s goal-line opportunities, potentially vulturing touchdowns.

Currently being drafted as RB5, Taylor’s ADP reflects his potential, but it’s risky given his recent performance. Fantasy managers should weigh the risks against the cost and consider other high-upside options that may offer better value later in drafts.

Play our free daily Pick’em Challenge and win! Play now!

[gambcom-standard rankid=”5″ ]

For more sports betting picks and tips, check out SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW.

Follow @DrewPhelps05 on Twitter/X. Follow SportsbookWire on Twitter/X and like us on Facebook.

[lawrence-newsletter]

[lawrence-auto-related count=3 category=3472]