Report: Jonathan Taylor requests trade from Indianapolis Colts

Running backs are the hot topic of the NFL at the moment, with much being made of the position’s value with contracts. Indianapolis Colts owner Jim Irsay had some opinions on the matter — one Jonathan Taylor was not a fan of. Now, the relationship between the two seems to be over after a meeting recently occurred.

According to Ian Rapoport of the NFL Network, Taylor has requested a trade from Indianapolis. Taylor was hoping to sign a contract extension with the Colts but instead, he will likely be playing the 2023 season for a different team.

One of the best running backs in the NFL is now on the market. Huge news as training camp gets underway across the league.

“Sources: #Colts star RB Jonathan Taylor has formally requested a trade after meeting with owner Jim Irsay,” Rapoport said via Twitter.

Taylor was one of the best running backs in the 2020 NFL Draft, ultimately being selected by Indianapolis in the second round with the No. 41 overall pick. He quickly became one of the top backs in the league despite the Colts not having a ton of success during his time.

When looking at the resume, the awards really stacked up during the 2021 season. Taylor was named a first-team All-Pro, a huge honor when there is only one running back available for selection. It was justified as well after Taylor led the league in rushing yards and rushing touchdowns.

In 17 games played, Taylor rushed for 1,811 yards and 18 touchdowns on 332 attempts (also at the top of the league). A truly incredible sophomore season from him, even if there is an extra game in there.

Taylor is entering his fourth season in the NFL and the last of his rookie contract. Since he was not a first-round pick, Taylor does not have a fourth-year option. Instead, he has the ability to become a free agent at the end of 2023. So if a team winds up trading for him, it could wind up being a rental.

Now, the process of moving on from Taylor will likely begin. He is not the only top running back on the market, with Dalvin Cook still being considered a free agent. Teams will have to be willing to give up some assets in order to acquire Taylor though.

While trading for a running back may not be what NFL teams want to do these days, Taylor is still one of the best in football.