What will it take to move Jonathan Taylor?
Reports suggest that the Indianapolis Colts have now lowered their demands for the star running back, Jonathan Taylor, who has expressed his desire to be traded. This decision comes after a meeting with Colts owner Jim Irsay back in July, during which Taylor requested a trade. As Taylor enters the final season of his rookie contract, Irsay has made it clear that a contract extension is not on the table.
Initially, it was reported by ESPN’s Stephen Holder that the Colts were seeking a first-round draft pick or a comparable offer in exchange for Taylor. However, a recent update from Holder reveals that the Colts have adjusted their asking price for the 24-year-old running back:
“If Taylor is moved, here’s what matters: The Colts want real value from any potential trade. It’s why no deal got done in August. They asked for a package of picks amounting to a first-round pick, but the reality is they’d settle for something a bit less. They seem determined to not just give him away and will play hardball, if necessary. Another complicating factor: A team that trades for Taylor will have to weigh whether to sign him to a new deal.”
Previously, the Miami Dolphins had discussions with the Colts about a potential trade involving Taylor, with reports suggesting that Indianapolis was interested in acquiring superstar wide receiver Jaylen Waddle in return.
While the Colts’ front office had initially sought a first-round draft pick for Taylor, it is widely recognized that such a deal was unlikely to materialize. The trade for Christian McCaffrey, regarded as the top all-around running back in the game, saw the San Francisco 49ers acquire him from the Carolina Panthers last year in exchange for second, third, and fourth-round picks in 2023, along with a fifth-rounder in 2024.
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Several teams have been hesitant to offer top-dollar contracts to running backs like Saquon Barkley, Dalvin Cook, Josh Jacobs, Tony Pollard, and Austin Ekeler, given the devaluation of the position in the NFL. Considering Taylor’s expiring contract, it was highly improbable that the Colts would secure a first-round draft pick in exchange for him.
Nonetheless, Taylor remains one of the league’s top-five running backs, making him an attractive prospect for several teams. It is anticipated that the Colts will trade Taylor before the deadline, provided they receive a reasonable offer that aligns with their expectations.
