Colts RB Jonathan Taylor likely to miss multiple weeks with thumb surgery

The Indianapolis Colts, led by star running back Jonathan Taylor, have showcased an impressive bounce-back performance lately. After winning two consecutive games against the Cleveland Browns and New Orleans Saints, they are now on a three-game winning streak.

With six wins and five losses, the Colts are now sitting in the second spot in the AFC South. However, their recent 27-20 win against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Lucas Oil Stadium came with a new headache as Jonathan Taylor finds himself in the throes of an injury battle yet again.

Jonathan Taylor likely to miss multiple weeks due to injury

NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport earlier reported that Jonathan Taylor sustained a thumb injury that would put his status in doubt. However, the source said no decision was made regarding whether he would be placed on injured reserve, which would require him to miss four weeks.

The situation took a clearer turn when Colts owner Jim Irsay informed The Athletic’s James Boyd of the veteran’s scheduled surgery on Wednesday. The aim is for his recovery period to be about 2-3 weeks, per ESPN.

This prognosis follows the All-Pro footballer’s notable performance against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, where he rushed for 91 yards and contributed two touchdowns despite the undisclosed injury. Rapoport noted the Colts star’s determination as he continued to play through the second half of the Bucs game despite the setback.

This recent setback adds to the 24-year-old player’s history of injury struggles. Last year, an ankle injury in Week 15 curtailed his 2022 NFL season unexpectedly. He had faced intermittent injury concerns, notably in Weeks 4 and 8 of the previous season, before the eventual season-ending blow during Week 15.

The Colts vet’s journey back to the field has been marred by a series of setbacks. Initially absent due to a contract dispute and lingering ankle troubles, he finally returned from the PUP list for seven games, showcasing his prowess with 414 yards on 100 carries since his comeback. He was even scheduled for a drug test due to his impressive performance against the Browns.

Zack Moss to take over with Jonathan Taylor out

Following Jonathan Taylor’s thumb injury and subsequent surgery, the spotlight once again shifts to Zack Moss to spearhead the Colts’ RB position. Moss, in a standout season, has showcased his prowess with a career-best 672 yards and five rushing touchdowns.

The veteran stepped up admirably during Taylor’s earlier absence in the season, shouldering the responsibility with 66 carries and eight targets across three games. He solidified his position as one of the NFL’s leading rushers during Taylor’s sidelined period.

The 25-year-old star is ranked third in rushing within the league’s first five weeks despite featuring in only four games. His standout performance against the formidable Baltimore Ravens, amassing 122 yards on 30 carries, along with two receptions for 23 yards and a touchdown, highlighted his impact even against top-tier defenses.

Upon Jonathan Taylor’s comeback, the RB continued his impressive form, registering a spectacular 165-yard, two-touchdown performance on 23 carries against the Tennessee Titans. This standout display mirrored his consistency as he surpassed the 100-yard mark on the ground twice in the subsequent four-game stretch.

Zack Moss showcased his ability to handle substantial responsibilities within the offense. He culminated in a commendable 334-yard rushing spree over the final four games in the last season.

What are your thoughts on Zack Moss’ impressive display lately? Share with us below.