Fantasy Insider Report: Colts Continue to Rely on Jonathan Taylor
The Athlon Sports 2023 Fantasy Football Annual magazine reached out to team insiders at all 32 NFL clubs to ask them three key fantasy questions heading into the season. As we count down to training camp, Sports Illustrated will publish their answers here. Today’s team: Indianapolis Colts
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What can we expect from RB Jonathan Taylor this season?
Expect a healthy Taylor to contribute about 1,500 rushing yards and double-digit touchdowns. He’s probably not going to put up numbers like in 2021, when he led the NFL with 1,811 rushing yards and scored 18 TDs. A lingering ankle injury that cost him six games last season is a reminder that it’s wise to spread the workload to keep the top back fresh.
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Who will be the Colts’ No. 2 WR — Alec Pierce or Isaiah McKenzie?
McKenzie does possess his share of speed and experience. Don’t be surprised if Pierce gets his work outside and McKenzie is used in the slot, where he can go in motion and run different routes to stretch defenses. Pierce had an O.K. rookie year, but from a fantasy perspective, I like the idea of McKenzie improving his numbers this season. The Colts are thin at receiver after Michael Pittman Jr., and they need a reliable No. 2 option. While Pierce will get his share of targets, I expect McKenzie to thrive in the slot.
Which tight end will be the top pass-catching option, and what kind of numbers should we expect?
Jelani Woods is the big-play guy the Colts want on the field because he stretches the middle and is an ideal end-zone target. This is a make-or-break year for Mo Alie-Cox, who has had some big games but hasn’t lived up to his three-year, $18 million extension signed before last season.
—Phillip Wilson, Freelance Writer
