Jonathan Taylor Resurrects the Running Back Market with Historic Colts Extension

The running back market has officially been resurrected from the dead. Jonathan Taylor and the Indianapolis Colts just agreed to a two-year, $44 million extension that proves the position still has a pulse if you happen to be a three-time Pro Bowler.

According to Adam Schefter and Ian Rapoport, the deal includes a staggering $39 million in guaranteed money and can max out at $47 million. For context, that is the kind of guaranteed cash usually reserved for edge rushers, left tackles, or quarterbacks who throw 14 interceptions a year.

"Adam Schefter reported the deal gives Taylor the largest third contract any running back has received."

Taylor and his agent, Malki Kawa, just secured the largest third contract any running back has ever received. In an era where front offices treat running backs like disposable razor blades, getting a bag this heavy on contract number three is basically a magic trick.

The Colts are locking down the absolute engine of their offense. Keeping number 28 healthy and happy in the backfield is the ultimate security blanket for Indianapolis. When Taylor is right, he dictates the entire pace of the game and forces defenses to stack the box.

For anyone looking at futures markets or division odds, this extension cements the Colts' offensive identity for the next couple of seasons. You do not hand a running back $22 million a year unless you plan on handing him the football 300 times a season.

Now the pressure shifts back to the turf. Taylor has his historic payday, and the Colts have their superstar locked in. The only thing left to do is prove that paying a running back top-of-the-market money is actually a winning formula.