Colts announce major Jonathan Taylor news

Jonathan Taylor is set to make his season debut on Sunday. The Colts announced that they’ve activated the star running back from the physically unable to perform list, and Taylor’s questionable tag was also removed ahead of their game against the Titans. To make room on the roster, the Colts have waived running back Jake Funk.

Additionally, ESPN's Adam Schefter reports that the two sides have agreed to a three-year, $42M contract extension, including $26.5M guaranteed.

Taylor taking the field was somewhat expected after he put in a full week of practice. However, the extension is somewhat of a surprise given the drama between Taylor and the organization. 

Taylor, of course, went from declaring his desire to be a life-long Colt to requesting a trade. Taylor's issues with owner Jim Irsay, who pushed back at the ongoing RB-market discourse, contributed to his deteriorating relationship with the organization. 

Taylor will obviously be a huge addition to the 2-2 Colts, with the RB having topped 1,000 yards from scrimmage in each of his three NFL seasons. Following a 2021 campaign where Taylor finished second in Offensive Player of the Year voting after collecting 2,171 yards from scrimmage and 20 touchdowns, he was limited to only 1,004 yards from scrimmage in 11 games last season.

Zack Moss has filled in with Taylor sidelined, and the veteran has collected 322 yards from scrimmage and two touchdowns in three games. The Colts have already seen plenty of turnover in the backfield, with Week 1 starter Deon Jackson getting cut and rookie Evan Hull being declared out for the season. Trey Sermon recently joined the roster and will likely roll as the RB3 going forward.