INDIANAPOLIS — It’s Jonathan Taylor’s backfield now. Ultimately, this is where the Indianapolis Colts were headed anyway. But when one half of their vaunted “1-1 punch” succumbed to injury in Sunday’s season-opener -- Marlon Mack tore his Achilles tendon -- it fast-forwarded the rookie’s timeline.
Taylor, who totaled 89 yards on 15 touches in his NFL debut, now takes the reigns as the undisputed No. 1 starter, Colts coach Frank Reich confirmed Monday.
“Jonathan’s ready,” said Reich. “He’ll step up and do a good job.”
Taylor, speaking Sunday before he knew Mack's status, credited Reich for preparing him for the opportunity.