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Jim Irsay on Jonathan Taylor trade request: The NFL rolls on

IMG_0985by:Griffin McVeigh•07/29/23•

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More running back news is dominating the NFL wire, with Jonathan Taylor reportedly requesting a trade on Saturday night. After three seasons with the Indianapolis Colts, Taylor is looking for a new home for the final season of his rookie contract. A huge name is now on the market if teams are looking for a top running back.

As usual, Colts owner Jim Irsay had something to say about the situation. When commenting on Taylor, he said no matter what happens in the situation, the NFL is going to “roll on.” He does not seem to concerned about what the Colts end up doing with Taylor, even with the recent request.

“If I die tonight and Jonathan Taylor is out of the league, no one’s gonna miss us,” Irsay said. “The league goes on. We know that. The National Football (League) rolls on. It doesn’t matter who comes and who goes, and it’s a privilege to be a part of it.”

Later in the day, Irsay was texting with SI’s Albert Breer. He said the Colts will not be trading Taylor anytime soon. Whether teams decide to call before the season or once play begins this fall, Irsay will make sure Taylor stays in Indianapolis.

“Text from @Colts owner @JimIrsay on Jonathan Taylor’s trade request (as reported by @RapSheet): “We’re not trading Jonathan… end of discussion. Not now and not in October!”

And with this, a new rodeo is born in the NFL.

To some extent, Irsay is correct. Whether or not Taylor plays for the Colts next season, the NFL will continue to roll. Indianapolis is breaking in new rookie quarterback Anthony Richardson, investing in him via a first-round pick.

However, having somebody like Taylor to rely on would be beneficial to help the growth process. Somebody only a season removed from an NFL rushing title is never a bad thing. Taylor clearly still has something left in the tank that can be of value.

If Irsay goes back on his word and does trade Taylor, Indianapolis likely would not be getting too big of a return. NFL teams have made their opinions of running backs clear in recent years, not wanting to give them long-term contracts that take up a good chunk of the salary cap.

Either way, an interesting scenario is brewing out of Indianapolis. Just another example of offseason theatrics occurring until the ball gets kicked off.