Despite weeks of trade speculation surrounding Indianapolis Colts star running back Jonathan Taylor, the organization reportedly remains unlikely to move its franchise player ahead of the NFL trade deadline.
According to NFL insider Tom Pelissero, Indianapolis is expected to retain Taylor unless another team presents an overwhelming offer in the coming days.
“After weeks of speculation, the most likely outcome for Taylor is … staying in Indianapolis. As we reported last week at The Sweep, the Colts quickly rejected an offer of a 2027 second-round pick plus another pick for Taylor. And while there were more inquiries made to the Colts this week, no team has come close to offering the type of premium capital that would persuade Indianapolis to deal him.”
Although Taylor has attracted interest from several teams, Indianapolis appears comfortable maintaining its asking price rather than accepting a lesser return.
Pelissero also noted that the Colts could revisit trade discussions during the offseason, particularly with significant organizational decisions approaching.
“Is it possible that will change in the next few days? Of course. But Taylor is still only 27 years old. He just signed a two-year, $44 million extension in August. And barring injury, he’ll have just as much if not more trade value in March, when a new GM will be in place.”
Taylor's age and recent contract extension provide Indianapolis with flexibility as the organization evaluates its long-term direction.
Colts could keep Jonathan Taylor despite ongoing roster overhaul
The latest report comes as the Colts (2-6) continue navigating a disappointing season that has already prompted significant roster changes.
Indianapolis recently traded All-Pro offensive guard Quenton Nelson to the Seattle Seahawks and defensive tackle DeForest Buckner to the San Francisco 49ers, raising questions about whether Taylor could become the next prominent player moved.
However, Pelissero suggested that owner Carlie Irsay-Gordon's ongoing evaluation of the organization could influence the decision to retain Taylor.
“Owner Carlie Irsay-Gordon is still evaluating everyone, from coach Shane Steichen and quarterback Daniel Jones on down, and that’s easier to do without stripping the roster to the studs. At this point, only a blockbuster offer for Taylor would cause the Colts to change course and move on from the face of the franchise.”
Indianapolis is coming off an embarrassing 42-7 loss to the Jacksonville Jaguars in Week 8, extending its losing streak to four games.
Despite the team's struggles, Taylor remains a central figure in the Colts' offense and could continue serving as a foundational piece while the organization determines its future.
For now, Indianapolis will attempt to snap its losing streak against the Dallas Cowboys (3-5) on Sunday at 1 p.m. ET on Fox, with Taylor increasingly likely to remain in a Colts uniform beyond the deadline.