Former agent explains why Colts' Jonathan Taylor could help RB market recover

NFL running backs might need Indianapolis' Jonathan Taylor to be their bell cow this season because he's in the best position to help the RB market rebound. 

"The best chance for a running back to stem the tide is Taylor," wrote Joel Corry, a former sports agent and contributor for CBS Sports. "The Colts are set up to accommodate a lucrative running back contract. Since Anthony Richardson was taken with the fourth overall pick in this year's NFL Draft, there shouldn't be an expensive quarterback for the foreseeable future." 

Per Spotrac, when Richardson signs his rookie contract (a four-year, $33.99M deal that includes a fifth-year option), it won't devour cap space since his 2023 cap hit is $6.18M. The Colts have the third-most cap room ($25.15M) in the NFL. 

Indianapolis' solid financial situation could allow it to pay Taylor, who's entering the final year of his contract. His market value is a four-year deal worth $13M annually, via Spotrac. 

Yet there are doubts about the 24-year-old after he rushed for a career-low 861 yards in 11 games in 2022 and underwent surgery on his ankle. Plus, the Colts don't have to sign him to a long-term deal even if Taylor becomes a Pro Bowler again. They could use the franchise tag instead.

Pro Bowls RBs such as New York's Saquon Barkley and Las Vegas' Josh Jacobs received the franchise tender rather than a multi-year deal this offseason. Although these star backs can hold out, teams still hold leverage because they cannot play until they sign their tag. 

Nonetheless, when Taylor is healthy, he's one of the best playmakers in the league. In 2021, he led the NFL in yards (2,171) and TDs (20). If he bounces back, it might compel the Colts to reward him with a long-term contract. Consequently, it would help other star RBs.