There are ongoing discussions about the possibility of the Indianapolis Colts trading running back Jonathan Taylor. This has stirred interest from several teams, including the Denver Broncos, Green Bay Packers, Minnesota Vikings, New York Giants, and Seattle Seahawks. Reports from ESPN and NFL Network suggest these talks are ‘active and ongoing.’
The Colts appear to be in a selling mode as the NFL trade deadline approaches. This follows the firing of their General Manager, Chris Ballard, after a decade-long tenure. Quenton Nelson, the Colts’ All-Pro guard and a former first-round pick, was recently traded to the Seahawks. Defensive tackle DeForest Buckner has also been moved to the San Francisco 49ers.
Wide receiver Josh Downs, nearing the end of his rookie contract, has requested a trade. The Colts value him at a third-round pick, yet they remain interested in retaining him. Regarding Taylor, he has expressed a desire to remain with the Colts. However, he acknowledges his future lies beyond his control.
Owner Carlie Irsay-Gordon and Taylor had a detailed discussion about what lies ahead. Irsay-Gordon reportedly hopes to keep Taylor during the team’s rebuilding phase, though they recognize the potential return from trading him could be significant. Taylor, 27, recently inked a two-year extension and holds remarkable stats, rushing for over 1,100 yards in four out of six NFL seasons. This year, he has accumulated 587 yards with eight touchdowns in seven games.
The Colts seek to strengthen their future, having acquired various draft picks from their recent trades. They have gained third- and fourth-round picks for 2027, and a fifth-round selection for 2028. Despite lacking a 2027 first-round pick, which the New York Jets hold after a previous trade, the team is actively looking to acquire additional draft capital.
As the Colts prepare to face the Jacksonville Jaguars, Taylor commented on the trade rumors. ‘I haven’t heard anything,’ he said. ‘I’m proud to wear the horseshoe and be here. Circumstances may change things, but I can’t control that.’
Coach Shane Steichen emphasizes focusing on immediate games rather than distractions amid the roster changes. The Colts aim to focus on future development, even as they manage the recent loss of key players, like Nelson and Buckner, in a competitive AFC South.
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