Multiple NFL teams are reportedly interested in trading for Indianapolis Colts running back Jonathan Taylor as the Nov. 10 trade deadline approaches, but the Colts remain uncertain about whether they will sell their star player. Taylor, who signed a two-year, $44 million contract extension in August, has dismissed trade speculation, focusing instead on the upcoming matchup against the Minnesota Vikings.
Jonathan Taylor, the Colts’ three-time Pro Bowl running back, has become a focal point of trade speculation as the NFL’s Nov. 10 deadline nears. Multiple teams are said to be open to acquiring the 27-year-old, but the Colts’ willingness to deal remains unclear. Taylor, who was drafted by the team in 2020, has consistently downplayed the rumors, stating, I haven’t given any thought to a potential trade. That’d be crazy right now, especially because we’ve got a great Minnesota Vikings team that we have to go against, he added, emphasizing his focus on the season.
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Colts’ Path Remains Uncertain
The Colts entered the season with expectations after signing Taylor to a two-year, $44 million extension. However, the team’s 2-4 record and the recent firing of general manager Chris Ballard have cast doubt on their trajectory. Ballard, who was dismissed after a loss to the previously winless Tennessee Titans, had overseen Taylor’s development since his 2020 draft. The Colts’ upcoming schedule—against 5-0 Minnesota and 4-2 Jacksonville—could influence whether they seek to trade key players like Taylor or Nelson.
Taylor’s Contract Complicates Trades
Taylor’s contract, which has him scheduled for roughly $16 million in cash in 2027 and approximately $18 million in 2028, complicates potential deals. An acquiring team would only be liable for the remaining base salary and applicable bonuses for the rest of the season instead of assuming the Colts’ prorated signing-bonus charges, but his future salaries might discourage potential buyers. Multiple teams have expressed interest in Taylor, citing his 8,090 career rushing yards and recent 492-yard, seven-touchdown performance this season.
Indianapolis Colts' Jonathan Taylor Addresses Trade Speculation, Chris Ballard's Firing
Taylor, 27, is second behind Baltimore’s Derrick Henry in career rushing yards since entering the league, with 8,090 total yards. He has 492 rushing yards and seven rushing touchdowns in six games this season. The Colts, however, would retain prorated signing-bonus charges.
Teams Eye Taylor, But Challenges Loom
Several teams have been linked to Taylor, including the Giants and Bengals. CBS Sports outlined potential scenarios, such as the Giants trading Cam Skattebo, a 2027 second-round pick, and a 2028 fourth-round pick for Taylor. The Bengals could make a move, while other teams might use draft picks in exchange for his services. However, the Colts’ decision will depend on their short-term goals and the viability of their current roster. With a 2-4 record, the team faces a critical decision: rebuild or trade for immediate help.
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According to Daniel Popper of The Athletic, the Seattle Seahawks, Green Bay Packers, and Cincinnati Bengals might also make significant moves involving running backs before the trade deadline. The Giants, meanwhile, have used a four-running-back committee, prompting speculation they might seek an option like Taylor. The Vikings, who have draft capital to spare, could also be interested, with an extra third, two extra fifths, and two extra sixths available. A trade involving Taylor would likely require a package of draft picks and young players to offset his long-term cost.
Taylor’s focus remains on the Colts, despite the speculation. We’ve gotta pull ourselves up and we’ve gotta go fight, he said, underscoring his commitment to the team. Defensive tackle DeForest Buckner, another player under trade scrutiny, expressed similar views, stating I know how it works. But it’s just distractions right now. All-Pro guard Quenton Nelson is in the final year of his deal and might be of interest to teams looking to make a postseason push.
DeForest Buckner, Jonathan Taylor on Chris Ballard, Colts' focus
Deadline Looms as Critical Moment
The Nov. 10 trade deadline looms as a critical moment for the Colts, who are 2-4 and face a stretch against Minnesota and Jacksonville. The Colts’ next two games, against teams with a combined 9-2 record, could determine whether they pursue a playoff run or pivot to rebuilding. Owner Irsay-Gordon has stated the team’s goal for the 2026 season remains unchanged, but the firing of Ballard has led to uncertainty. The Colts are still plotting their next moves after Monday’s firing, with many around the NFL expected to gauge the team’s interest in dealing key players.
Ballard had spent his 10th season with the Colts and was in the final year of his contract, with limited success following the retirement of franchise QB Andrew Luck in 2019. The Colts have reached the postseason only once since, and their 2-4 start has heightened pressure on the new leadership. The team's struggles have also prompted questions about coach Shane Steichen, who has zero postseason trips in four seasons. While he’s still leading the way for now, his seat is and has been warm.
Colts' Jonathan Taylor, DeForest Buckner respond to Chris Ballard's firing, trade rumors
