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Colts’ Running Back Jonathan Taylor Named AFC Offensive Player of the Month

Houston Texans v Indianapolis Colts Photo by Justin Casterline/Getty Images

Indianapolis Colts’ running back Jonathan Taylor has been named AFC Offensive Player of the Month of October, marking the first time he’s received this award.

Just last season, Taylor ranked third in the NFL in rushing yards with 1,169, and now he’s added another accolade to his already impressive resume.

Through the course of October, the Colts’ star back had 79 carries for 478 yards, averaging 6.1 yards per carry, and six touchdowns. Additionally, Taylor had 13 catches for 195 yards, which brings his total scrimmage yards to 673, and total touchdowns to seven.

What makes this feat even more impressive is the fact that Taylor has yet to have a game where he’s received 20 or more touches. That will likely change as the season progresses, but there’s something to be said about Taylor’s ability to gain so much yardage on very little attempts.

Taylor is arguably the team’s best offensive player and is such a crucial part to Indy’s offense, whether it’s in the running game or catching passes out of the backfield. Part of what makes him unique is his quick burst and ability to take a play from a 5-yard gain to a 35-yard gain, as he is currently second in the NFL in yards after contact with 404.

With this award, the second-year back is continuing to build upon such a fast and unique start to his NFL career. The Colts play will face the New York Jets on Thursday night, where Taylor will look to continue his impressive season.

With Titans’ running back Derrick Henry suffering a season-ending injury, Taylor could eventually take over as the league’s leading rusher. And given the path he’s currently on, it seems like only a matter of time.

Jonathan Taylor has put the rest of the NFL on notice: The Colts have found themselves a star.