Colts' Taylor: New contract shows 'running backs are essential'

Indianapolis Colts running back Jonathan Taylor believes his new contract exemplifies a shift in how teams view the running back position.

"I definitely think it is (a shift)," Taylor said after the Colts' Week 5 win over the Tennessee Titans, according to Stephen Holder of ESPN.

"Anytime a running back can go out there and perform but also have some security, it just shows that running backs are essential."

Taylor signed a three-year, $42-million contract Saturday, ending a standoff between the team and player that had been ongoing since the summer.

Running backs have encountered difficulties landing long-term deals, as Josh Jacobs and Saquon Barkley had to settle for the franchise tag.

Taylor played his first game Sunday since Dec. 17 after being activated off the PUP list. The 24-year-old finished the contest with 34 yards on seven touches, as he was limited after participating in only two practices this week.

Taylor acknowledged that being away from the game for so long has been challenging.

"It weighs (on you) a lot," Taylor said. "Especially when you're not healthy and you can't go out there and do what you love. It pushes you and it puts you in tough positions mentally and you've got to have a good support system."

The Wisconsin product was permitted to seek a trade in August but believes everything that happened this summer was worth the end result.

"At the end of the day, it's always the organization's decision," Taylor said. "But being able to put yourself in the best position is always the No. 1 thing you can do. And for me, that was it."

The Colts improved to 3-2 with their Week 5 win. They face the Jacksonville Jaguars next Sunday.

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