Jonathan Taylor’s injured ankle has healed, and he could pass a physical now, according to multiple reports. The Indianapolis Colts are expected to resume trade talks once Taylor passes his physical. He is currently on the PUP list and will be out for at least the first four weeks. He is expected to be ready to play in Week 5.
Where Could the Colts Trade Jonathan Taylor?
In the preseason, the team held trade talks for Taylor with a number of teams. The most serious talks reportedly took place with the Green Bay Packers and Miami Dolphins.
The Colts asked for Dolphins wide receiver Jaylen Waddle along with a high draft pick. The Colts are looking for a top receiver for rookie quarterback Anthony Richardson.
NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport said “don’t be surprised” if the Dolphins are an option when the Colts resume trade talks. Dolphins GM Chris Grier said in late August that the team had exploratory talks with the Colts. However, there was no exchange of offers from either side.
Rapoport also said the Packers, who offered two mid-round picks, are no longer interested in Taylor. ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported that the Colts asked for Packers wide receiver Christian Watson along with a high draft pick for Taylor.
Miami is heading into the season with Raheem Mostert as the starting running back, with second-year player Salvon Ahmed and rookie De’Von Achane backing up.
Mostert played for Dolphins head coach Mike McDaniel in San Francisco. He set career highs with 891 rush yards and 31 receptions last season, scoring five touchdowns.
Injuries in the first few weeks could create more interested teams for Taylor. Right now, the market seems limited because most teams are set at running back and are reluctant to pay the high price that comes with signing Taylor to a contract extension and what they would have to send the Colts to complete a deal.
Why Do the Colts Want To Trade Taylor?
Taylor and the Colts are far apart in contract extension talks. During the preseason, the Colts gave Taylor permission to seek a trade.
Taylor, who is entering his fourth season, led the NFL in rushing in 2021 with 1,811 yards. He was named All-Pro that season. Last season, Taylor missed six games with an ankle injury that required offseason surgery.
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Rapoport also reported that there is a “slim” chance that Taylor stays with the Colts if they are able to reach an agreement on an extension.
The Colts are starting third-year running back Deon Jackson in Taylor’s place. Jackson has 267 rushing yards in 25 career games.