The Indianapolis Colts are excited to see running back Jonathan Taylor work behind the elite offensive line, and they aren’t the only ones. Those holding a top-three pick in rookie dynasty drafts have to be elated as well.
While Clyde Edwards-Helaire is the top prospect in rookie drafts, Taylor isn’t far behind. Despite being in a committee for the 2020 season, Taylor was ranked as the No. 2 overall rookie in Draft Wire’s dynasty rankings in fantasy football.
Taylor will be sharing the backfield with Marlon Mack to begin his career, but that should shy fantasy managers away from using the No. 2 pick on him in rookie drafts. It will be a timeshare, but Taylor will get enough work to be an explosive and relevant player in fantasy football.
While the short-term might be a bit murky and even frustrating at times—Mack did go for 1,091 rushing yards in 2019, after all—the long term view is extremely promising. Mack is a free agent following the 2020 season and with no contract talks in sight, they could be planning to move on with Taylor leading the backfield after his rookie year.
Taylor has all of the makings to be a three-down back. His blend of size, speed and explosiveness make him a threat to make a house call every time he touches the ball. He’s not the best route runner or pass-catcher, but he might need more credit than he’s given in that area.
Taylor will be a strong addition in dynasty leagues while also providing som potential upside in Year 1 if something happens to Mack.
