The Indianapolis Colts' 2-4 start and the firing of general manager Chris Ballard have intensified speculation that star running back Jonathan Taylor could be moved before the November 10 trade deadline. Owner Carlie Irsay-Gordon's first GM dismissal signals impatience with the team's direction, and with the Colts ranking 28th in yards per play allowed and 26th in net yards per attempt allowed, a rebuild appears possible. Taylor, 27, posted 20 touchdowns and nearly 2,000 scrimmage yards last season but has played in only one playoff game as a rookie in 2020. The Colts already owe a 2027 first-round pick to the Jets from a 2025 deadline deal, making them potential major sellers.
Mock trade scenarios for Jonathan Taylor
Drawing comparisons to the Christian McCaffrey trade that netted the Panthers second-, third-, fourth-, and fifth-round picks in 2022, several teams have been identified as potential suitors for Taylor.
New York Giants
Giants receive: RB Jonathan Taylor. Colts receive: RB Cam Skattebo, 2027 second-round pick, 2028 fourth-round pick. The Giants used a four-back committee against the Saints and released Najee Harris. Coach John Harbaugh expressed desire for a workhorse like Derrick Henry or Saquon Barkley. Taylor would provide that, while Indianapolis gains draft capital and a promising rookie on a cost-effective deal.
Cincinnati Bengals
Bengals receive: RB Jonathan Taylor, 2027 fourth-round pick. Colts receive: RB Chase Brown, 2027 second-round pick, 2027 fifth-round pick. Brown, 26, is younger with less wear and a proven pass-catching ability. Cincinnati, which traded the No. 10 pick for Dexter Lawrence in April, has an extra third-round pick to facilitate the deal. Taylor could immediately improve their under-center rushing attack.
Denver Broncos
Broncos receive: RB Jonathan Taylor, 2027 fifth-round pick. Colts receive: RB J.K. Dobbins, 2027 second-round pick, 2027 fourth-round pick. Denver traded a first-round pick for Jaylen Waddle this offseason and struggles to run the ball, hindering quarterback Bo Nix. Dobbins is on a two-year deal with an out after this season, giving the Colts flexibility.
Seattle Seahawks
Seahawks receive: RB Jonathan Taylor. Colts receive: RB Jadarian Price, 2027 second-round pick. Seattle misses Kenneth Walker III and has dealt with fumbles from backups. Offensive coordinator Brian Fleury, formerly with the 49ers, understands the value of a top running back. Price is on injured reserve, making this a rare quick move on a first-round pick.
Minnesota Vikings
Vikings receive: RB Jonathan Taylor. Colts receive: RB Jordan Mason, 2027 second-round pick, 2027 fifth-round pick. The 5-0 Vikings have an improved run game, and Mason is returning from a thumb injury. Pairing Taylor with mobile quarterback Kyler Murray would enhance Kevin O'Connell's offense. Minnesota possesses extra draft capital, including an additional third, two fifths, and two sixths.
