Image Source: NBC Sports
Jonathan Taylor remains the clear centerpiece of the Indianapolis Colts’ backfield, despite a notable development involving rookie running back Seth McGowan during the team’s Week 3 victory over the Houston Texans.
McGowan rushed four times for 14 yards in the Colts’ win and received his first meaningful stretch of snaps alongside Taylor. According to NBC Sports fantasy analyst Rivers McCown, the rookie played 11 snaps compared with Taylor’s 60 as Indianapolis attempted to protect a late lead.
Jonathan Taylor Still Leads the Colts Backfield
The usage split offered an important reminder for fantasy football managers: McGowan’s increased role did not signal a change at the top of the Colts’ depth chart. Taylor continued to handle the overwhelming majority of the backfield work and remained Indianapolis’ primary option at running back.
The Colts were in clock-management mode against Houston, allowing McGowan to receive additional opportunities while the offense worked to close out the game. The situation appeared more connected to game flow than to a planned change in the team’s running back rotation.
NBC Sports noted that Taylor may have been managing a minor issue on the sideline, but there was no indication that his role had been reduced or that Indianapolis was preparing to move away from him. That distinction is especially important for fantasy managers monitoring the Colts’ backfield.
Why Seth McGowan’s Workload Matters
Although McGowan’s stat line was modest, his 11 snaps were meaningful because they represented his first extended action with Taylor. The rookie has been competing with DJ Giddens for the No. 2 running back position behind the established Colts starter.
McGowan entered the season with a reputation as a decisive, physical runner. Earlier reports from training camp suggested that he had impressed coaches and observers with his aggressive running style, burst and ability to make quick decisions in the hole.
However, the Colts’ backfield remains heavily dependent on Taylor. Unless Taylor misses time, neither McGowan nor Giddens is expected to receive a consistent fantasy football workload. Their value is primarily tied to contingency planning and potential goal-line or short-yardage opportunities.
- Jonathan Taylor: Indianapolis’ featured running back and the clear fantasy starter.
- Seth McGowan: A developmental backup who gained valuable experience in Week 3.
- DJ Giddens: Another reserve back competing for opportunities behind Taylor.
Fantasy Football Impact for Week 4 and Beyond
Fantasy managers should not overreact to McGowan’s four carries. Taylor’s 60 snaps compared with McGowan’s 11 show that the Colts still view Taylor as their primary offensive engine. His workload remains secure when Indianapolis is playing a competitive game or protecting a lead.
McGowan is worth monitoring in deeper leagues, particularly for managers who roster Taylor. A backup running back who earns the trust of the coaching staff can become valuable quickly if the starter suffers an injury. Still, there is not enough evidence from this game alone to make McGowan a recommended starter.
The more immediate takeaway is that Indianapolis appears comfortable giving Taylor occasional relief when circumstances allow. That could help preserve his workload over the course of the season, but it does not materially weaken his fantasy outlook.
What to Watch Next
The key question is whether McGowan receives additional snaps in a neutral game script. If his playing time rises when the Colts are not protecting a sizable lead, that would offer stronger evidence of a developing role.
For now, Taylor remains the player to start confidently. McGowan is best viewed as a watchlist option and potential handcuff, while Giddens remains relevant mainly as part of the backup competition.
Frequently Asked Questions
Did Jonathan Taylor lose his starting role?
No. Taylor remained the Colts’ primary running back and played 60 snaps in Week 3. McGowan’s increased opportunities appeared to be connected to game flow and clock management.
How many yards did Seth McGowan rush for?
McGowan carried the ball four times for 14 yards in Indianapolis’ Week 3 win over Houston.
Is Seth McGowan worth adding in fantasy football?
McGowan is mainly a deep-league watchlist option and a potential handcuff for Taylor managers. He does not currently have a reliable weekly role.
Should fantasy managers start Jonathan Taylor?
Yes. Taylor continues to receive the Colts’ primary workload and remains a strong fantasy starter when healthy.
