Jonathan Taylor is still one of the best running backs in football. ESPN confirmed that by placing the Indianapolis Colts star inside its Top-10 running backs in the 2025 NFL positional rankings.
It’s recognition he earned after another strong season. But even with the praise, Indianapolis appears open to a more shared backfield approach in 2025 — and rookie DJ Giddens may have a real role in that plan. The Colts also added Khalil Herbert in free agency, who is talented enough to compete for rushing attempts.
Running backs opened ESPN’s annual rankings series on Monday, and it’s becoming clear that more NFL teams are adapting to the RB-by-committee lifestyle. Why? Simply because the league has gotten much deeper at the position. Seven teams averaged more than 140 rushing yards per game last season, per Jeremy Fowler. In 2023, that number was only three. Teams are leaning back into the ground game, and results are following.
Taylor was one of the NFL’s most consistent backs in 2024. He rushed for 1,432 yards and scored 11 touchdowns, despite instability at quarterback and injuries along the offensive line. At 26, he remains in his prime and hasn’t lost any of his burst or strength.
He’s second only to Derrick Henry in 100-yard rushing games since 2020 and is the only back since Adrian Peterson with over 6,000 rushing yards and 50 touchdowns through five seasons.
Colts Could Mix In Herbert And Giddens Early On
Still, Taylor fell two spots in the ESPN rankings. That’s less about a decline in performance and more about the rise of new talent across the league. Younger running backs are producing faster than ever, and depth at the position is growing. That includes the Colts.
With an injury history that extends back to his college days at Wisconsin, Taylor has appeared in 17 games just one season of his five-year career, averaging 13.4 games since 2020. He has never eclipsed 2,000 rushing yards in a season, but in the seasons where he’s logged at least 14 appearances, he’s recorded 1,000-plus yards.
An exception would be in 2023 when Taylor was placed on the PUP list, after requesting a trade from the Colts as he awaited his contract extension. But in hindsight, the blame for missed games and missed opportunities could be placed on his usage in recent seasons.
Enter Giddens. The Colts used a fifth-round pick on the Kansas State product, who signed a four-year, $4.624 million deal. For a player with Giddens’ college production — over 2,500 rushing yards and a top-six finish nationally in yards after contact last season — it’s a potential steal. His versatility makes him a strong fit for Shane Steichen’s system, and his contract gives the Colts financial flexibility.
Giddens doesn’t need to replace Taylor. But he doesn’t have to. He’s expected to compete for the RB2 role early and could earn meaningful offensive snaps right away. He’s a bigger back with solid vision and footwork, and he brings something the Colts lacked last season — a reliable receiving option out of the backfield.
Taylor Could Flourish With Less On His Shoulders In 2025
While Taylor is still the clear lead back, Indianapolis is likely preparing for a more balanced workload. Having a plethora of offensive weapons helps stabilize Taylor’s long-term health while keeping the offense dynamic.
Giddens provides value, not just on the field, but also within the salary cap. If he becomes a consistent contributor, his rookie deal could turn out to be one of the most team-friendly contracts in the league.
The Colts don’t view this as a step away from Taylor. They know what they have in him. He’s still the tone-setter, the closer and the focal point of opposing defenses. But in a league where fresh legs matter, having options behind him is just smart football.
Taylor is still a top-tier running back in 2025, but the Colts’ rushing attack might look a little different. More depth and balance than what fans are used to.
And if Giddens lives up to the early hype, that difference could be a major strength. It could also keep Taylor active each week of the NFL regular season.
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