Indianapolis Colts running back Jonathan Taylor could return to the field against the Atlanta Falcons in Week 16, according to Ian Rapoport of NFL Network on Saturday.
While Taylor will miss his third consecutive game Saturday when the Colts host the Pittsburgh Steelers since undergoing thumb surgery, it seems he’s nearing a return.
Rapoport reported that it’s a possibility that Taylor makes his return when the Colts visit the Falcons in Week 16 on Christmas Eve.
From @NFLGameDay Kickoff: #Steelers QB Kenny Pickett is pushing to play next week but Week 17 against the #Seahawks is a bit more realistic. Meanwhile, there is a realistic chance that RB Jonathan Taylor (thumb) is back next week vs. the #Falcons. pic.twitter.com/mdz66YFAlh
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) December 16, 2023
Taylor hasn’t practiced since having the procedure done, but his timeline to return was estimated to be roughly 3-5 weeks. Next week will be four weeks removed from the surgery.
Following the injury reports throughout Week 16 will give us a better idea of how close his return is.
The Colts will continue to lean on Zack Moss to lead the backfield despite his recent struggles, and it will be a massive boost for the offense when Taylor does return.