As the Indianapolis Colts report for the 2025 training camp, one name continues to dominate the trade chatter louder than any other: Jonathan Taylor. Once the crown jewel of the Colts’ offense and the NFL’s leading rusher just a few years ago, Taylor has suddenly found himself at the epicenter of swirling rumors and contract drama. And for many close to the team, the writing appears to be on the wall—Taylor may be the most obvious trade candidate on the entire roster heading into this critical offseason.
Taylor, who returned from injury in 2024 to post solid but unspectacular numbers, has made it clear in recent months that he believes he still deserves to be paid among the league’s elite backs. The Colts, meanwhile, are headed in a new direction—one that appears to prioritize quarterback Anthony Richardson’s development, speed on the perimeter, and a more balanced offensive system that doesn’t revolve entirely around a feature back.
According to team insiders, general manager Chris Ballard has already fielded multiple inquiries about Taylor’s availability, particularly from AFC playoff hopefuls and NFC teams with glaring backfield gaps. “There’s been interest—serious interest,” one front office source revealed last week. “But it’s about finding the right return. The Colts aren’t going to give him away.”
Still just 26 years old, Taylor remains a rare talent when healthy. His blend of vision, power, and breakaway speed has made him a nightmare for defenses since entering the league. However, the 2025 draft saw the Colts select running back Donovan Riley out of Oklahoma in the third round, a move that many saw as a clear insurance policy—or even a succession plan.
The team’s refusal to extend Taylor before the 2025 season has fueled speculation that Indianapolis may be trying to avoid another long-term commitment to a position they no longer value as highly. With Riley looking sharp in rookie minicamp and veteran Deon Jackson still in the mix, the backfield suddenly looks crowded.
Financially, moving Taylor would free up valuable cap space for a Colts team that is preparing to offer a blockbuster extension to Richardson. More importantly, it would give the front office the flexibility to bolster the offensive line or add another veteran playmaker on defense.
What makes Taylor’s situation particularly compelling is his vocal stance. He’s not one to shy away from speaking his mind, and he’s already expressed frustration about the lack of progress in negotiations. “I’ve done everything this organization has asked,” Taylor said during OTA interviews. “If they don’t want to commit, then maybe someone else will.”
Whether it’s the Ravens, Cowboys, or even a dark horse like the Bears, several teams are keeping tabs on Taylor’s status. A trade could come before Week 1 or even during preseason, depending on injuries and shifting needs across the league.
One thing is clear—Jonathan Taylor is no longer untouchable in Indianapolis. As the Colts prepare for another critical year in their rebuild, trading their former offensive centerpiece might just be the bold move needed to move this franchise forward.