The Indianapolis Colts have set a first-round pick as the asking price for star running back Jonathan Taylor, according to reporting from Tony Pauline. While the team has not confirmed a trade request, multiple outlets suggest Taylor’s value aligns more closely with the 2022 Christian McCaffrey deal, which required a first-round selection.
Taylor, who has eight rushing touchdowns (tied for NFL lead) and 587 rushing yards (fifth in NFL), remains under contract through 2028 after signing an extension in August. He has stated he has not requested a trade but acknowledged the business realities of the NFL.
Colts’ trade stance unclear
ESPN’s Jordan Raanan reported the team may accept a second-round pick and additional assets to move Taylor, while Adam Schefter suggested Indianapolis would prefer to trade other players first. The Colts have already moved Quenton Nelson (guard) to the Seattle Seahawks and DeForest Buckner (defensive tackle) to the San Francisco 49ers in recent days, signaling a broader roster overhaul.
Taylor’s perspective
Speaking to reporters, Taylor said: “I haven’t heard anything, and I can’t control that.” He added: “You know that the day always comes. Whether you like it or not, the day may come.” Taylor previously requested a trade in 2023 during a contract dispute, though he has since reaffirmed his desire to stay.
Potential suitors
Teams reportedly interested in Taylor include the Green Bay Packers, Seattle Seahawks, Minnesota Vikings, Denver Broncos, and New York Giants, per multiple NFL insiders. The Colts, currently 2-5, fired general manager Chris Ballard on October 19 and face uncertainty regarding head coach Shane Steichen’s future.
Taylor is scheduled to play Sunday against the Jacksonville Jaguars on the road.