The Indianapolis Colts are open to trading star running back Jonathan Taylor and are actively engaging with multiple teams, according to reports from ESPN and NFL Network. The Colts (2-5) have already traded Quenton Nelson to Seattle and DeForest Buckner to San Francisco this week, and the return for Taylor could be larger.
ESPN reports the Colts have received at least one offer including a second-round pick plus additional compensation. Taylor, who has not requested a trade, remains one of the league's most productive backs, with eight rushing touchdowns through seven games this season, on pace to threaten his career high of 18. He has twice led the NFL in rushing touchdowns, including last season, and led the league in rushing yards in 2021 en route to first-team All-Pro honors.
Five teams have shown interest: Denver Broncos, Green Bay Packers, Minnesota Vikings, New York Giants, and Seattle Seahawks. Here is how each could fit.
Green Bay Packers
The Packers (5-3) recently activated Josh Jacobs but rank last in rushing yards per game (60.6) and yards per rush (2.9), on pace for historic lows since the 1970 merger. That has forced quarterback Jordan Love to carry the offense, with nearly 82% of yards coming via the pass.
New York Giants
The Giants (4-2-1) lead the NFC East and coach John Harbaugh has expressed a desire for a bell-cow back like Derrick Henry or Saquon Barkley. Adding Taylor could ease the burden on rookie quarterback J.J. McCarthy and complement the offense alongside Jaxson Dart.
Denver Broncos
The Broncos (5-2) have struggled on the ground, ranking 30th in yards after first contact per rush despite decent blocking. Rookie Jonah Coleman has shown promise but dealt with injuries. Denver holds an extra 2027 fourth-round pick.
Seattle Seahawks
Seattle (4-3) already traded for Quenton Nelson this week and misses Kenneth Walker III. Reuniting Nelson with Taylor could boost their Super Bowl aspirations. Offensive coordinator Brian Fleury has experience acquiring a top running back midseason from his time with the 49ers and Christian McCaffrey.
Minnesota Vikings
The Vikings are 6-0 but have scored only 10 touchdowns, the fewest by a 6-0 team since the 1934 Lions. Taylor has 40 touchdowns over the past three seasons, third-most in the NFL, and pairing him with mobile quarterback Kyler Murray would give Kevin O'Connell a dynamic weapon. Minnesota possesses ample draft capital, including an extra third-round pick, two extra fifths, and two extra sixths.
