I really like Taylor and always have. I think he will be a starter either by the end of this season or for the next several seasons and will be very effective.

I disagree with your comments regarding NT and UT. I don’t throw those letters around in an effort to impress. I don’t know if others do or not. However, there is a clear difference in the positions in our system, and there always has been. If there is not or was not, Polian wouldn’t have spoken directly of Terrance Taylor as a “true nose tackle.” Now, that said, this team (like many who run similar defenses) can swap players in and out depending on down and distance and alter the role the NT or UT plays. IE – sometimes we have two players in at DT who are to play a “three-technique” style where penetration and pressure on the QB is their primary purpose. Other times we have players like Mookie and T2 who will NEVER be called on to serve the role of a UT in OUR defense. We do have hybrids, of course, but the two positions and requirements of those positions are real, always have been, and unless something drastic changes in our defense in the near future, will be in the foreseeable future.

I think he could regain his starting position as well. Of the DTs on the roster he’s showed the most to this point. That’s not necessarily saying a WHOLE LOT though considering our history at the position and that so few of the players filling out the roster at DT have a wealth of experience.

I’m simply saying that Ed Johnson played on a Colts team devoid of any talent at DT. Quinn Pitcock and Raheem Brock were primary facets in the rotation after the loss of Brock. Now Brock will move out to DE full-time, his natural position. Pitcock is out of football. AND the Colts have another Johnson, Foster, Moala, Taylor, Grady, and Kuntz who all seem to be far superior alternatives than we’ve had in recent history.

He has to get back into playing shape before he can be effective. He has the experience advantage but he’ll be at a disadvantage when it comes to conditioning and even at learning some of the “new” facets of the Coyer defense. Most of the DTs can focus primarily on learning the new nuances of the defense. Ed Johnson has to focus on getting in shape.

I guess what I’m saying is, a starting spot is NOT Ed Johnson’s spot to LOSE. It was last year, it’s not this year. He is not and will not be given anything. He has to start over and to suggest or to think that he’s a shoe-in as a starter this year is a bit premature. That’s all.

Here’s to his good luck and quick return to playing shape!