Colts Running Back Jonathan Taylor Signals Potential Departure Before Tuesday Deadline
After a 27-23 loss to Dallas, the Indianapolis star reflected on his time in the city, acknowledging the possibility that Sunday was his final game.
By Nadia Rahman ·
The NFL trade deadline arrives this Tuesday, and speculation regarding the Indianapolis Colts' star running back has intensified. Jonathan Taylor, who may have played his final game for the organization on Sunday, spoke in the locker room about his potential departure.
Taylor helped the Colts in their 27-23 loss to the Dallas Cowboys. He rushed 13 times for 46 yards and caught five passes for 18 receiving yards. Following the game, reporters asked the running back if he viewed the contest as his last with the team.
Taylor responded that he treats every game as if it is his final one. He noted that Indianapolis was a place where he matured and started a family. He stated that the city and its people helped shape him into the man he is today. If Sunday was his final game, he expressed gratitude for the city.
When asked what he hopes fans remember about him, Taylor emphasized the hard work of the entire team. He said he was pleased to display the effort put in by the group each week and year. He concluded by telling fans to know that it was a pleasure.
Taylor is one of the most productive running backs in franchise history. He leads the organization with 77 rushing touchdowns. He ranks second in team history with 8,254 rushing yards. Entering the week, his average of 89.2 rushing yards per game ranked fifth in NFL history.
The likelihood of a trade increased after the Colts moved offensive guard Quenton Nelson to the Seattle Seahawks and defensive lineman DeForest Buckner to the San Francisco 49ers. According to Jay Glazer of Fox Sports, the New York Giants offered a second- and fifth-round pick for Taylor a few weeks ago. That offer is reportedly no longer on the table unless the price is lower.
Several teams could benefit from adding a running back of Taylor's caliber. The Green Bay Packers have the fewest rushing yards by a team above a .500 record through eight games in NFL history, with 485. The Minnesota Vikings, currently 6-1, could strengthen their offense with a new weapon. The Denver Broncos are also viewed as a potential contender if they acquire a similar player.
Other teams have dealt with running back injuries. Josh Jacobs hurt his hand against the New England Patriots and has not looked at his best since returning from the commissioner's exempt list. This situation may increase demand for healthy talent like Taylor.
It is possible the Colts value Taylor more than any other team and keep him past the deadline. However, Taylor prepared his remarks for a potential farewell. He addressed the fans and the city directly in the locker room on Sunday.
