Jonathan Taylor and the Indianapolis Colts continue to rely on one of the NFL’s most explosive running backs as they prepare for the 2026 season. An anonymous league coordinator recently highlighted the trait that separates Taylor from many of his peers, pointing to his exceptional ability to create game-changing plays once he reaches open space.
The evaluation centered on Taylor’s rare combination of speed, vision and acceleration after breaking through the line of scrimmage. Defenders may contain him near the line on several carries, but once he reaches the second and third levels of the defense, he possesses the burst to turn routine runs into explosive gains. That ability remains one of the defining characteristics of his game.
Indianapolis Colts running back Jonathan Taylor (28) rushes the ball Sunday, Dec. 28, 2025, during a game against the Jacksonville Jaguars at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis.
Taylor has consistently demonstrated the physical tools that made him one of the league’s premier rushers. His blend of power and long speed allows him to break tackles in traffic before quickly separating from pursuing defenders in the open field. Few running backs can match his capacity to change field position with a single carry, making him a constant big-play threat.
His effectiveness also places added pressure on opposing defenses throughout a game. Safeties often find themselves forced closer to the line of scrimmage to help contain the running game, creating opportunities elsewhere in the offense. Defenses must remain disciplined on every snap because even a brief lapse in pursuit angles can result in a significant gain when Taylor finds daylight.
NFL Coordinator Drops Positive Take on Indianapolis Colts’ Jonathan Taylor
Nov 2, 2025; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; Indianapolis Colts running back Jonathan Taylor (28) takes the field to warm up before the game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Acrisure Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-Imagn Images
An anonymous coordinator talked about what sets Taylor apart ahead of the new NFL season. This is detailed more in an analysis by Jeremy Fowler for ESPN.
“Really special in space,” an NFL coordinator said. “Once he hits the second and third levels with some space to operate, he’s uniquely talented.”
The Colts will look to build an offense that maximizes those strengths throughout the upcoming season. Consistent blocking and a balanced offensive approach could provide Taylor with more opportunities to reach the open field, where he has repeatedly shown the ability to punish defenses. His presence alone forces opponents to account for the running game on every possession.
As Indianapolis pursues a return to playoff contention, Taylor remains one of the franchise’s most valuable offensive weapons. If he continues to capitalize on the space created by the offense, his combination of explosiveness and athleticism could once again rank among the biggest differences for the Colts during the 2026 campaign.