Indianapolis Colts running back Jonathan Taylor is dealing with a thumb injury that has kept him sidelined for three weeks. The Colts take on the Atlanta Falcons in Week 16.
Jonathan Taylor injury updates
Friday PM update: Taylor has been removed from the injury report and will play as expected. Zack Moss is questionable, but even if he plays, Taylor is set to return to his lead back role.
Friday update: Colts head coach Shane Steichen said that Taylor looked good during practice on Friday. The All-Pro is expected to make his return this Sunday.
Thursday update: Taylor was listed as a full practice participant on Thursday.
Wednesday PM update: Taylor was listed as a full participant for Wednesday. Despite them just doing a walkthrough, this is a good sign for his availability this week.
Wednesday update: Taylor participated in a team walk-through on Wednesday ahead of Week 16, but that’s not exactly news — he has been participating in walk-throughs for the last several weeks of his injury. He is reportedly progressing and could potentially play this weekend, though it’s far from a guarantee. NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport reported that there is “optimism” surrounding Taylor’s chances to play on Sunday.
#Colts coach Shane Steichen told reporters that RB Jonathan Taylor is progressing well and will participate in the walk-through today (as he’s done the last few weeks).
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) December 20, 2023
There remains optimism that Taylor will go this week, but he’ll be evaluated on a daily basis.
Fantasy football analysis
If Taylor returns, we will see a decrease in carries and yardage for Zack Moss, who has taken over the majority of the backfield load in Taylor’s absence.
Betting analysis
Taylor’s return would be hugely important for the Colts — not just in terms of betting on them this game, but in their fight to get to the playoffs. They are still in the hunt for a Wild Card bid, and if Taylor remains sidelined, their chances to get to the postseason are going to decrease.