Colts Open Trade Talks for Star Running Back Jonathan Taylor

Colts listening to offers for Jonathan Taylor

The Indianapolis Colts are open to trading star running back Jonathan Taylor, and active talks are underway with several interested teams. Denver, Green Bay, Minnesota, Seattle and the New York Giants have all expressed interest in the 27 year old running back.

Owner Carlie Irsay Gordon met with Taylor this week to discuss their future. Indianapolis would prefer to keep Taylor for its rebuild, but team leaders see the massive potential value he holds on the trade market. The Colts want a draft package similar to what Carolina received for Christian McCaffrey in 2022, when San Francisco traded four draft picks in the second through fifth rounds.

Roster overhaul underway in Indianapolis

Indianapolis has already shown a willingness to clear salary and stock up on future assets. Last week, the team traded away guard Quenton Nelson and defensive tackle DeForest Buckner to acquire 2027 third and fourth round picks along with a 2028 fifth round pick.

Wide receiver Josh Downs also requested a trade last week. While the Colts want to keep Downs and value him at a third round pick, they have listened to offers. Both Taylor and Downs are still expected to play on Sunday against Jacksonville.

Taylor stated Thursday that he has not asked to be traded. He mentioned that he is always proud to wear the horseshoe, while adding, "Whether you like it or not, the day may come. You may get to stay somewhere forever, but you understand the business side of it." Head coach Shane Steichen met with the team to remind players to stay professional.

Taylor enters Sunday as the second leading rusher in franchise history with 8,185 yards and 77 rushing touchdowns. He has 587 rushing yards this season and is tied for the league lead with eight touchdowns on the ground.

What it means for the next game

Indianapolis Colts at Jacksonville Jaguars (NFL, Sun, 01 Nov): Jacksonville Jaguars win 79%, Indianapolis Colts win 21%; projected score Jacksonville Jaguars 28, Indianapolis Colts 19. Our safest pick: Jaguars to win.

Dallas Cowboys at Indianapolis Colts (NFL, Sun, 08 Nov): Indianapolis Colts win 33%, Dallas Cowboys win 67%; projected score Indianapolis Colts 23, Dallas Cowboys 28. Our safest pick: Cowboys +2.5.