Ballard: Jonathan Taylor still has ankle pain

Discussing the decision to put RB Jonathan Taylor on the PUP list, Colts GM Chris Ballard said that Taylor is still "complaining of pain in the ankle." Taylor underwent surgery way back in January. It's impossible to know whether that ankle is actually still giving him trouble, or if it's just being used as an excuse to keep him off the field amid the contract squabble. Regardless, we know that Taylor will miss at least the first four games of the 2023 campaign. We're guessing that the ankle issue will be behind him by Week 5.

Colts RB Jonathan Taylor took over the rushing in his return Sunday against the Falcons, claiming 18 of 21 Indianapolis RB carries (85.7%). He managed just 43 yards (2.4 per rush). Taylor also ran just 14 routes in a game that saw QB Gardner Minshew attempt 37 passes and take 6 sacks. RB Tyler Goodson beat Taylor 2-1 in targets and logged the team's only RB catch. It seems goofy from here that Taylor wouldn't garner more of the receiving work. That has been a lighter area for him most of the season. But for that to continue even when No. 2 RB Zack Moss is out seems odd. Perhaps it was related to Taylor coming off thumb surgery. We'll watch for any indication Taylor's receiving usage will improve for Week 17. He also gets a weaker run D in the Raiders (22nd in rush DVOA compared with Atlanta at No. 10).

Colts RB Jonathan Taylor (thumb) put in a full week of practice and isn’t listed on the final injury report for Sunday’s game vs. the Falcons. Considering he’s coming back from a thumb injury, Taylor should be ready for a full workload – barring any kind of ball-security issues during the game. That’s especially true with RB Zack Moss (forearm) having missed practice all week. He’s listed as questionable.

Colts RB Jonathan Taylor will test his right thumb in practice on Wednesday before determining whether he can play vs. the Falcons this weekend, according to insider Mike Chappell. Taylor is expected to wear a wrap or brace on the thumb if he does play, Chappell adds. We'll keep you updated on his status. Taylor would carry some added risk but be tough to keep out of Week 16 fantasy lineups if he plays on Sunday.

Colts RB Jonathan Taylor (thumb) was listed as a full participant on Wednesday's injury report. The team didn't actually practice, so it's an estimation. But this seemingly puts Taylor on track to return for this weekend's game vs. the Falcons. RB Zack Moss (foreman) did not practice on Wednesday. We'll update this backfield again on Thursday.

Colts RB Jonathan Taylor (thumb) is out for Saturday's game vs. the Steelers. HC Shane Steichen said earlier this week that Taylor is still expected to play again this season. We'll see if he can make it back for Week 16. Zack Moss gets another game as Indianapolis' feature back this weekend. He's racked up 32 carries and 11 targets over the last two weeks.