Indianapolis Colts star running back Jonathan Taylor has been granted permission to seek a trade after failing to reach a contract extension with the team, according to multiple reports.
Taylor, who led the NFL in rushing yards (1,845) and touchdowns (18) last season, is entering the final year of his rookie deal and is set to make $1.4 million in 2023. He reportedly turned down a four-year, $60 million offer from the Colts in July, seeking a higher annual salary and more guaranteed money.
The Colts have been reluctant to meet Taylor’s demands, citing the short shelf life and market value of running backs in today’s NFL. They have also invested heavily in their offensive line, which features three Pro Bowlers and one All-Pro.
With the regular season less than two weeks away, the Colts have decided to explore trade options for Taylor, who has not participated in any preseason games or practices. Several teams have expressed interest in acquiring the 26-year-old, including two AFC East rivals, the Buffalo Bills and the Miami Dolphins.
The Bills are looking for a reliable workhorse to complement their explosive passing game, while the Dolphins are hoping to pair Taylor with his former college teammate, quarterback Tua Tagovailoa. Both teams have enough cap space and draft capital to make a competitive offer for Taylor.
However, the Colts are not expected to give up Taylor easily. They are reportedly asking for at least one first-round pick and a young player in return for their franchise player. They are also prepared to keep Taylor for another year if they do not receive a satisfactory offer.
Taylor has been one of the best running backs in the league since he was drafted in the second round out of Wisconsin in 2020. He has rushed for 3,226 yards and 33 touchdowns in 32 games, averaging 5.1 yards per carry. He has also improved his receiving skills, catching 76 passes for 673 yards and four touchdowns in his career.
Taylor’s trade request has sparked a debate among players, fans and analysts about the value of running backs in the modern NFL. Some argue that Taylor deserves to be paid like a top-tier player, regardless of his position. Others contend that running backs are easily replaceable and not worth investing big money in.
Sources: SportSpyder, Colts.com, Colts Wire, Yardbarker
