Great news: The Colts gave out a vital player for trade, and it is causing the team a lot…
The owner of the Indianapolis Colts, Jim Irsay, stated during the offseason that he would not consider a trade for Pro Bowl running back Jonathan Taylor. Taylor has been refusing to report to training camp because of a disagreement over a contract.
Several reports now state that Irsay and the Colts are reversing that decision-making process and giving Taylor permission to pursue a trade.
A major development in the NFL as Week 1 approaches is that “several GMs and talent evaluators were informed earlier today that Taylor is available,” according to NFL Network.
Jonathan Taylor sprints after the ball.
On December 4, 2022, in Arlington, Texas, at AT&T Stadium, Jonathan Taylor of the Indianapolis Colts carries the ball against the Dallas Cowboys during the first half. (David Cooper/Getty Images)
It is clear that Indianapolis will not be sending Taylor packing based on an ESPN report that states they are seeking a first-round pick or a “package of picks that equates to as much” in exchange for Taylor.
As he approaches the last year of his rookie contract, Taylor has made it known that he is not happy with the Colts this offseason due to a contract dispute.
Taylor feels that he should have a new contract, but Irsay has been firm in his opinion that he shouldn’t have one right now. With players like Saquon Barkley and Josh Jacobs—two elite backs like Taylor—not receiving extensions from their respective teams, the running back market has drastically declined.
Jonathan Taylor, the running back for the Colts, is “not presently with the team.” AMID THE CONTRACT DISPUTE
Late in July, Taylor and Irsay got together on a team bus parked close to the Colts’ practice field. According to NFL Network, Taylor requested a trade after the meeting, but Irsay refused to entertain the idea.
Taylor returned to the Colts last Monday after taking a break to receive more rehabilitation for an ankle that needed surgery during the offseason. He did, however, depart the team once more, and he is currently free to pursue trades.
Running back for the Indianapolis Colts, Jonathan Taylor, at camp On July 29, 2023, Jonathan Taylor observes drills at the training camp in Westfield, Indiana. (Photo by Michael Conroy for AP)
Taylor led the NFL in rushing yards (1,811) and rushing touchdowns (18) two seasons ago. His rushing totals from the previous season were limited by an ankle injury, as he only managed 861 yards on 192 attempts and four touchdowns in 11 games.
Taylor’s price tag will be high due to such production, as the Colts appear to be informing those who are interested.
The Carolina Panthers traded All-Pro Christian McCaffrey to the San Francisco 49ers in October of last year in exchange for 2023 second, third, and fourth round picks as well as a 2024 fifth round pick. This was the most notable running-back trade in recent memory.
On September 7, Week 1 officially begins with a Thursday night game between the Detroit Lions and Kansas City Chiefs.
Jonathan Taylor without a helmet
On December 4, 2022, in Arlington, Texas, Jonathan Taylor of the Indianapolis Colts warms up prior to kickoff against the Dallas Cowboys at AT&T Stadium. (David Cooper/Getty Images)
We’ll see if Jonathan Taylor is on the Colts’ sideline when they play the Jacksonville Jaguars on September 10.
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