The Indianapolis Colts may face challenging decisions ahead of the trade deadline on November 10, especially with Jonathan Taylor frequently mentioned as a possible trade candidate following the team's 2-5 start. The running back recently addressed social media comments from his wife, Ayanna, about the potential of leaving Indianapolis, clarifying that the speculation has not impacted his preparation for games.
There are signs that the Colts would prefer to keep Taylor as part of their future. In contrast, players like DeForest Buckner and Quenton Nelson are reportedly more likely to be traded. However, an organization contemplating a significant rebuild might consider listening to offers for its star running back if another team presents an exceptionally attractive proposal.
The New York Giants could be one of those teams interested in Taylor, and their recent 27-21 overtime victory over the Houston Texans improved their record to 4-2-1, positioning them well as they head into their bye week. With the NFC East race looking favorable, general manager Joe Schoen has an opportunity to pursue an aggressive move that could strengthen the offense for several seasons.
Giants could offer Devin Singletary and two draft picks for Jonathan Taylor
A hypothetical agreement could send running back Jonathan Taylor to New York in exchange for Devin Singletary, the Giants' first-round pick in 2027, and a fourth-round pick in 2028.
This proposal would provide Indianapolis with an experienced replacement while allowing them to recover valuable draft capital, especially after the franchise traded its 2027 first-round pick in the deal for Sauce Gardner. For New York, acquiring Taylor would mean gaining a proven offensive centerpiece under contract through 2028, which would offer greater continuity for an offense that has already undergone significant changes at the quarterback position.
Including Singletary in the trade would help Indianapolis maintain a functioning backfield without the need to invest another early draft selection in that position. The 29-year-old has taken on substantial responsibilities in his career, notably during his earlier stints in Buffalo and Houston, although his role in New York has diminished as younger players have been given opportunities. He demonstrated his value in a recent game by scoring the game-winning touchdown with a 30-yard run against his former team.
Singletary's expiring contract would also provide Indianapolis with financial flexibility after the season, allowing the team to reassess its backfield situation without making a long-term commitment.
For the Colts, the first-round pick would be the key attraction in this trade. Taylor is one of the NFL's most accomplished running backs, and his production this season has reinforced his value, despite the team's disappointing record. In seven games, he has amassed 587 rushing yards and eight touchdowns, including 95 yards and a score against Minnesota.
These performances would likely make Indianapolis hesitant to part with him unless they receive compensation that significantly improves their rebuilding efforts. The additional fourth-round pick would also offer another chance for the Colts to enhance their roster. However, New York will need to consider how much draft flexibility it can afford to sacrifice while continuing to develop its younger players.
Jonathan Taylor's contract would require a substantial investment
Taylor signed a two-year, $44 million extension in August, which keeps him under contract through the 2028 season. This agreement reflects Indianapolis' belief that the veteran can remain productive in the next stage of his career, but it also introduces financial obligations that any team acquiring him would need to manage.
He is scheduled to earn approximately $16 million in cash during 2027 and nearly $18 million in 2028, making him one of the more expensive running backs in the NFL. New York must evaluate these commitments alongside its existing investments, especially since several younger players will soon be eligible for more lucrative contracts.
The Colts would also face salary-cap implications related to previously paid bonuses. The timing of any trade would affect how these charges are accounted for, meaning a deal made before November could have different financial considerations compared to one completed during the offseason.
Indianapolis has reportedly indicated a preference for retaining Taylor, suggesting that Giants’ general manager Joe Schoen might need to offer more than typical trade compensation for a running back. This could make the Giants' first-round draft pick particularly valuable, but giving up such a significant asset would require assurance that Taylor can maintain his productivity beyond the current season.
Taylor could transform the Giants' offense around J.J. McCarthy
New York's recent success has come despite significant uncertainty at the quarterback position. Jaxson Dart suffered a knee injury in September and is expected to miss the remainder of the regular season, which has forced the coaching staff to explore alternative options.
Article Continues BelowTo address this challenge, the Giants acquired J.J. McCarthy from Minnesota, and the young quarterback made his first start for New York against Houston. He completed 20 of 28 passes for 252 yards, leading the Giants to an overtime victory that showcased the offense's potential as it gains continuity. Tyler could add another dimension to this developing structure. His ability to generate production between the tackles and create explosive plays would give offensive coordinator Matt Nagy greater flexibility in establishing the running game. A dependable veteran could also help McCarthy perform more effectively, particularly against opponents who can generate pressure.
New York already boasts promising young talent, including wide receiver Malik Nabers and running back Cam Skattebo. Skattebo rushed for a career-high 124 yards against Houston, reinforcing his importance following a challenging previous performance, and his development raises questions about whether the Giants need to invest in another expensive running back, especially since the organization has focused on building around younger contributors. Nonetheless, Harbaugh could develop a productive rotation featuring two physical runners with varying levels of experience, as Taylor's receiving ability would further enhance the offense, giving McCarthy another reliable option when defenses focus on limiting downfield opportunities.
The potential benefits extend beyond the current playoff race, but New York must ensure that acquiring a veteran does not hinder Skattebo's development.
Would Indianapolis accept the Giants' proposal?
The biggest obstacle to a potential trade is the Colts' willingness to negotiate. Owner Carlie Irsay-Gordon reportedly views Jonathan Taylor as a crucial part of Indianapolis' future, and the organization has indicated that other established veterans may be more available before the trade deadline. Trading a player shortly after signing him to a substantial extension could also raise concerns about the franchise's long-term direction. The Giants would need to make an offer compelling enough to convince Indianapolis that recovering valuable draft capital outweighs the benefits of keeping their most dependable offensive playmaker.
General Manager Joe Schoen faces a similarly difficult decision. The New York Giants have exceeded expectations through the first seven games, but their younger offensive contributors have shown enough progress to justify confidence in their development. An aggressive trade could accelerate the team's competitive ambitions but might reduce the draft resources available for strengthening other positions.
With the Giants entering their bye week, the front office has an opportunity to evaluate this balance before the November trade deadline. A compelling starting point for negotiations would be a first-round draft pick, an experienced replacement player, and additional draft compensation. Whether this package could persuade the Colts to trade Taylor will depend on how serious the organization is about rebuilding and how much another contender is willing to offer.