If you know a friend who has Jonathan Taylor on their fantasy football team, hug them. The Colts’ star running back is expected to return to football soon, and they may or may not shed tears.
While Taylor’s return is great news for anyone who drafted him , managers should be aware that it could take Taylor some time to look like himself.
In Disney’s Aladdin, there’s a scene when Prince Ali comes to court Princess Jasmine and the whole town is involved. The local guards make their way through the city, singing make way for Prince Ali. It’s a massive gesture to get Jasmine to like Aladdin, only to find out later that the whole thing was a sham. Prince Ali is no prince, and it’s just Aladdin showboating as fool’s gold.
Keep that in mind as the Taylor hype begins to build.
#ForTheShoe running back Jonathan Taylor addressing the media for the first time this year. “I don’t think it matters if I say I’m committed or not because I’m here.” @WISH_TV pic.twitter.com/pzpV4mzwEK
— Ross Bolin (@Ross_Bolin) October 5, 2023
Jonathan Taylor on commitment to Colts:
"Right now, I am here and my #1 goal is to attack this first practice. Its been over 290 days.
Trying to focus and make sure when I step on the field that I get acclimated."
Explains he's not going to get into contract conversations.
— Larra Overton (@LarraOverton) October 5, 2023
Taylor hasn’t been involved in football activities for over nine months, and his next two matchups (if he’s activated soon) are against fellow AFC South rivals, the Tennessee Titans and the Jacksonville Jaguars. Both teams have an incredibly stout run defense, and there’s a possibility that Taylor might be rusty.
Additionally, the Colts offensive line is dealing with a rash of injuries. It’s been weeks since all five starters have played together, making Taylor’s return much more complicated.
Managers, beware: you should temper your expectations. (Don’t say I didn’t warn you.) Start Taylor at your own risk!
If you feel he is worth putting in the starting lineup, be sure you have another running back who could score enough for two players. We’re talking the Christian McCaffrey or Bijan Robinson types.
Beyond that, stay patient with Taylor. It may be a few weeks before he begins to look like himself again.
