In The Blitz, RotoViz writers react to the latest news and help you place it within the context of our 2020 research and recommendations.

We never celebrate injuries. We never wish for players to get hurt and risk losing playing time or even their careers. For Jonathan Taylor, his talent and pedigree were never in question. It was only a matter of time before he got his chance. Unfortunately, it came at the expense of Marlon Mack and his season-ending injury in Week 1. For Taylor, this cemented his role as an elite fantasy asset, and his usage and performance in Week 2 should signify great things to come.

Indianapolis Colts rookie running back Jonathan Taylor will be stepping into a starting role going forward, confirmed by Colts head coach Frank Reich. Taylor was not able to do much on the ground last week, picking up only 22 yards on nine carries. However, he was able to show that he can be an asset in the passing game, grabbing six balls for 67 yards. Marlon Mack’s (Achilles) injury has given Taylor the opportunity to see more of the workload rather than splitting carries. He will be facing a Minnesota Vikings Defense that allowed 158 yards and one touchdown on the ground last week. Reich confirmed that Nyheim Hines and Jordan Wilkins will also be part of the mix, but Taylor getting the nod should give him solid RB2 value this week against a Vikings team that struggled against the run in Week 1.

Generational Talent

I don’t throw around the phrase “generational talent” lightly. However, Taylor is not just any ordinary running back. His college pedigree is well documented, and his 4.39 speed at 226 pounds is legitimate. He has no injury history, has shown a willingness and ability to shoulder a heavy load, and is a better pass catcher than many people think. TJ Calkins tabbed Taylor as the perfect running back prospect even before the NFL combine.