The Indianapolis Colts enter the new season with the challenge of securing a dependable Jonathan Taylor Colts backup running to support their star rusher. Two-time Pro Bowler Jonathan Taylor leads the team’s ground attack, but his recent injury history underscores the urgency for reliable depth. Last season, the Colts’ second-leading rusher was rookie quarterback Anthony Richardson, who gained 499 yards on the ground, followed by running back Trey Sermon with just 159 yards, revealing the pressing need for a stronger backup option.
The Rise of DJ Giddens as a Promising Rookie Talent
Fifth-round draft pick DJ Giddens from Kansas State has emerged as an overlooked talent with the potential to make a substantial contribution in his rookie season. Brent Sobleski pointed out the significance of Giddens’ skill set, especially considering Taylor’s recent inconsistency due to injuries that led him to miss 16 games over the last three seasons. Giddens stands out with his ability to move smoothly and his impressive breakaway speed.
“Instead, a bit of Taylor can be found in DJ Giddens’ game,”
Brent Sobleski observed. Giddens amassed 3,150 yards from scrimmage and 21 touchdowns over his final two college seasons, showcasing a style that blends power and agility.
Adjusting the Colts’ Offensive Approach with Giddens
Given Taylor’s durability concerns after completing only one full NFL season in 2021-22, the Colts are preparing to adopt a run-focused game plan led by their young quarterback, Anthony Richardson. Giddens’ explosive running capabilities are expected to be an important asset in this strategy, providing a dynamic option behind Taylor when the starter is not on the field.
Confidence from Coaching Staff and Analysts
Head coach Shane Steichen expressed solid confidence in Giddens during rookie minicamp.
“His movement skills, his vision, the way he sees the holes is impressive. He’s a glider,”
Steichen praised, emphasizing the rookie’s natural instincts and readiness.
“Adding that depth to our running back room is going to be big.”
Veteran draft analyst Mel Kiper Jr. also supported this upbeat view, awarding the Colts a B grade for their draft class and highlighting Giddens’ two consecutive 1,200-yard rushing seasons in college as proof of his ability to step in as a dependable backup.
Competition for the Second Running Back Role
The battle for the Colts’ RB2 job will intensify as DJ Giddens faces competition from Khalil Herbert, a recent acquisition who signed a one-year contract after playing with the Cincinnati Bengals. Training camp will be the critical proving ground where Giddens must showcase his capabilities to secure a key role in Indianapolis’ backfield depth chart. The team’s offensive identity could hinge on how well these runners perform behind Taylor in the upcoming season.
With the spotlight on the rookie and the stakes high, DJ Giddens is ready to seize the opportunity to become a vital component of the Colts’ rushing attack.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Is Jonathan Taylor’s injury serious?
A. At first, Taylor hoped his ankle injury was minor compared to the one that bothered him in 2022. That injury required surgery and affected him into early 2023. However, as he worked on recovery, he gradually understood the new injury was serious.
Q. What was Jonathan Taylor’s 40 time?
A. At the 2020 NFL Scouting Combine, Jonathan Taylor, a running back for the Wisconsin Badgers, completed the 40-yard dash in an official time of 4.39 seconds.
Q. How serious is Jonathan Taylor’s injury?
A. The Colts’ running back had a severe high ankle sprain in the 2022 season. He missed three of the following five games. After returning for five games, he reinjured the ankle. This injury required surgery, which affected the first four games of the 2023 season. The situation was complicated by a contract disagreement.