As we inch toward the new season, the ever-changing NFL landscape has player fantasy values constantly on the move. Whether you’re used to the dynasty platform or are still learning the rules, let’s dive into the latest dynasty fantasy football value of Jonathan Taylor.
Jonathan Taylor’s Dynasty Outlook and Value
Fortunately, it’s not all negativity when it comes to the Colts’ fantasy assets. We still have Taylor, a surefire top-five running back in the NFL.
The 2021 overall RB1 is firmly entrenched as an elite fantasy asset. Taylor amassed 2,171 yards from scrimmage in his career year. He regressed in 2022, totaling just 1,004 yards and averaging 13.3 ppg, but a lot of that can be chalked up to injury and the cratering of Indianapolis’ offense.
Taylor, who had been healthy for his entire career going back to high school, suffered an early-season ankle sprain that he just couldn’t seem to shake. Ultimately, an aggravation of the injury ended his season prematurely in Week 15.
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Taylor wound up playing in just 10 games last season (I’m not counting Week 15, where he played all of two snaps). When he was on the field, though, Taylor was woefully inefficient. His performance declined considerably.
In 2021, Taylor led the NFL in evaded-tackles-per-touch rate and was third in yards created per touch. In 2022, those numbers were 27th and 40th, respectively. It goes to show that a lot of efficiency metrics are impossible to fully separate from the team situation. I also think injury played a large role.
Taylor was his healthiest in Week 1 and from Weeks 10-12, after missing Week 9 to rest his ankle. In those four games, Taylor posted fantasy point totals of 27.5, 24.3, 16.4, and 18.8. The elite talent didn’t go anywhere, it was just a rough season. These things happen.
Jonathan Taylor’s Fantasy Ranking
Taylor is still just 24 years old and remains a surefire top-five dynasty RB. You can still argue for him as the overall RB1. That’s where we still have him (No. 10 overall) in our dynasty Superflex rankings. I would be surprised if he was anything other than a highly productive fantasy asset for at least the next five years.
Taylor is in the final year of his rookie contract, though, and the Colts will likely look to extend him this offseason. If they can’t reach a deal, it’s very possible Taylor will sign elsewhere next year. Given his talent, it’s difficult to imagine him going anywhere where he wouldn’t be viewed as an elite RB1.
Do not let an injury-marred 2022 deter you from selecting Taylor early in dynasty startup drafts.