Jonathan Taylor may have played his final game for the Indianapolis Colts after Sunday’s narrow 27-23 defeat to the Dallas Cowboys at Lucas Oil Stadium. The Colts’ 2-7 record has plunged them toward the bottom of the NFL standings, prompting a rebuilding phase that has already seen several veteran players traded away. Taylor, the running back who has been a central figure for the team since being drafted in 2020, faces an uncertain future amid trade speculation.
Taylor, who was picked 41st overall in the second round of the 2020 NFL Draft out of Wisconsin, spoke to reporters about what the franchise and city have meant to him. “This has been a spot where I grew up,” he said. “You started a family and you really embraced this city, the people… This place helped shape me into the man I am today. I’m very grateful for the city of Indianapolis.”
When asked what he hopes Colts fans will remember about him if he moves on, Taylor said: “I just hope they appreciate, and know that I appreciate them. It was a pleasure to put on display, not only all of my hard work but the team’s hard work each and every single week, each and every single year.” His comments were captured in a video shared by WISH-TV News, where he spoke candidly about his connection to the city and the franchise.
In seven seasons with Indianapolis, Taylor has amassed 8,249 rushing yards. He has posted four 1,000-yard seasons, including three campaigns where he exceeded 1,400 yards. His standout year came in 2021 when he led the NFL with 1,811 rushing yards and 18 touchdowns. Last season he delivered the second-best performance of his career, maintaining his status as one of the league’s most productive running backs.
The Colts have already begun dismantling much of the roster built under former general manager Chris Ballard, who was recently fired. Defensive tackle DeForest Buckner and offensive lineman Quentin Nelson have been traded, and offers are being considered for quarterback Daniel Jones. Taylor’s potential trade would reduce the team’s salary cap obligations by $44 million over the next two seasons, which includes the remaining amount owed for this year. He signed a two-year, $44 million extension before the current season began.
Several playoff contenders could be interested in acquiring Taylor to boost their rushing attacks. Teams such as the New York Giants, Denver Broncos, Green Bay Packers, Minnesota Vikings, and Seattle Seahawks are reportedly exploring options to strengthen their backfield, with Taylor’s experience and recent form making him an attractive target.
The Colts have not confirmed any trade offers for Taylor, and the running back himself has not publicly addressed his next destination. For now, his future remains uncertain as the franchise continues to reshape its roster in an effort to recover from a disappointing start to the season.
According to Yahoo Sports.
