Taylor’s Triumphant Return: Colts’ RB Named Player of the Week
Jonathan Taylor is back, and he’s making a statement. After a dominant performance against the Denver Broncos, the Indianapolis Colts running back has been named the AFC Offensive Player of the Week. In a thrilling 29-28 victory, Taylor showcased the explosive talent that has made him one of the league’s most feared ball carriers.
A Week 2 Masterclass
The Colts’ Week 2 matchup against the Broncos was a nail-biter, decided in the final moments. But one thing was clear throughout the game: Jonathan Taylor was a force to be reckoned with. He carried the ball 25 times for a staggering 165 yards, averaging an impressive 6.6 yards per carry. But Taylor’s impact wasn’t limited to the ground game. He also proved to be a valuable weapon in the passing attack, hauling in two receptions for 50 yards, including a crucial 7-yard touchdown.
Taylor’s performance wasn’t just statistically impressive; it was also filled with highlight-reel plays. He ripped off a massive 68-yard run in the fourth quarter, showcasing his speed, power, and elusiveness. He also reached a top speed of 22.38 mph on a 43-yard reception, according to Next Gen Stats. That’s the fastest speed recorded by a ball carrier in the NFL since 2020.
Taylor’s Historic Day
Taylor’s Week 2 performance was more than just a great game; it was a historic one. His 215 all-purpose yards marked the fifth time in his career that he’s surpassed 200 scrimmage yards in a single game, tying Colts legend Edgerrin James for the most in franchise history. He also became the first Colts player since Marshall Faulk in 1998 to record at least 150 rushing yards and 50 receiving yards in a game.
Furthermore, the game marked Taylor’s 25th career game with at least 100 rushing yards, surpassing Eric Dickerson for the second-most in Colts history. His seven consecutive games with at least 70 rushing yards is currently the longest active streak in the NFL.
The Impact on the Colts
Taylor’s return to form has been a major boost for the Colts’ offense. Quarterback Daniel Jones has also impressed, throwing for 316 yards and a touchdown against the Broncos. The Colts’ offense has been firing on all cylinders to start the season, becoming the first team in NFL history to not punt once through two games.
The Colts’ success isn’t solely due to their offense. The defense, led by Kenny Moore II and Xavien Howard, has also been playing at a high level. In their Week 1 victory over the Miami Dolphins, the Colts’ defense pressured Tua Tagovailoa into throwing an interception on the Dolphins’ first drive.
Looking Ahead
With Taylor leading the way, the Colts have their sights set on a successful season. They are currently 2-0, their best start since 2009. Taylor currently leads the NFL with 236 rushing yards through two weeks. The Colts face the Tennessee Titans in Week 3, a team against whom Taylor has had considerable success in the past. In Week 16 of the 2024 season, Taylor ran for 218 yards and three touchdowns against the Titans.
Around the League
While Taylor’s performance was the talk of the AFC, other players around the league also had outstanding Week 2 performances. Detroit Lions quarterback Jared Goff threw for five touchdowns in a 52-21 victory over the Chicago Bears, earning him NFC Offensive Player of the Week honors. Baltimore Ravens linebacker Roquan Smith was named AFC Defensive Player of the Week after recording 15 tackles, three tackles for loss, and a 63-yard fumble recovery touchdown.
In the NFC, San Francisco 49ers linebacker Fred Warner earned Defensive Player of the Week honors after posting 11 tackles, a tackle for loss, a forced fumble, and a fumble recovery in a 26-21 win over the New Orleans Saints. New England Patriots running back Ty Montgomery was named AFC Special Teams Player of the Week after scoring on a 90-yard kickoff return in a 33-27 victory over the Miami Dolphins.
Taylor’s Triumphant Return
Jonathan Taylor’s triumphant return has been one of the biggest stories of the 2025 NFL season so far. After an injury-plagued 2024 season, Taylor is back to his dominant self, leading the league in rushing and earning AFC Offensive Player of the Week honors. With Taylor leading the way, the Colts are a team to watch in the AFC.