The Indianapolis Colts have suffered a significant setback ahead of their divisional clash against the Jacksonville Jaguars, with star running back Jonathan Taylor ruled out due to an ankle injury. Taylor, a key piece of the Colts’ offense and one of the NFL’s premier rushers, will miss the game after suffering a setback in his recovery from offseason ankle surgery. In his absence, recent acquisition Trey Sermon is expected to take the lead role in the Colts’ backfield.
Jonathan Taylor’s absence is a major blow to a Colts team that has leaned heavily on his production in recent seasons. Since entering the league in 2020, Taylor has quickly established himself as one of the most dynamic running backs in the NFL. He led the league in rushing yards and touchdowns in 2021, earning All-Pro honors and becoming the centerpiece of the Colts’ offense. However, injuries derailed his 2022 season, limiting his effectiveness and forcing him to undergo offseason surgery to address lingering ankle issues.
Despite high hopes for Taylor’s return in 2023, his recovery has been slower than expected, and the latest setback with his ankle has forced the Colts to take a cautious approach. Head coach Shane Steichen addressed the media, expressing disappointment over Taylor’s continued absence but emphasizing the need for long-term health. “We all know what Jonathan brings to this team, but we have to think about his future. We want him at full strength, and we’re confident in our other guys to step up in his place,” Steichen said.
With Taylor sidelined, Trey Sermon will take over as the Colts’ starting running back against the Jaguars. Sermon, who was claimed off waivers by the Colts earlier this season, now finds himself in the spotlight. A third-round pick of the San Francisco 49ers in 2021, Sermon’s NFL career has been marked by inconsistency and limited opportunities. After spending time with both the 49ers and the Philadelphia Eagles, Sermon is hoping to reignite his career in Indianapolis.
Sermon’s physical running style and ability to break tackles make him a potential fit for the Colts’ power-run scheme. Though he lacks the explosiveness of Taylor, Sermon has shown flashes of being an effective downhill runner who can wear down opposing defenses. “I’m ready for the opportunity,” Sermon said during a press conference. “This is what I’ve been working for, and I’m going to make the most of it. I know the team has confidence in me, and I’m ready to prove myself.”
The Colts’ Week 6 matchup against the Jacksonville Jaguars presents a tough test for Sermon and the rest of the Colts’ offense. The Jaguars boast a strong defensive front, anchored by players like linebacker Josh Allen and defensive lineman Travon Walker, who excel at disrupting opposing run games. With quarterback Anthony Richardson already sidelined with a shoulder injury, the Colts will be relying heavily on backup quarterback Gardner Minshew and Sermon to generate offense.
Steichen has stressed the importance of maintaining balance in the offense despite the absences of key players. “We’ve got to find ways to move the ball and control the clock,” Steichen said. “Trey’s going to be a big part of that, and we trust him to carry the load. It’s about executing our game plan and staying disciplined.”
While Jonathan Taylor’s injury is undoubtedly a setback for the Colts, they are hopeful that he will return in the coming weeks. For now, the team must adapt and find ways to be productive without their star running back. Trey Sermon, a player once considered a potential star himself, will have a chance to prove that he can handle the starting role and help the Colts remain competitive in a tightly contested AFC South division.
As the Colts prepare for their critical divisional matchup, all eyes will be on Sermon to see if he can step up in Taylor’s absence and lead the Colts to victory.