Jonathan Taylor said Thursday that he has not asked the Indianapolis Colts to trade him and would prefer to remain with the franchise that drafted him. His comments came after Indianapolis sent Quenton Nelson to the Seattle Seahawks and DeForest Buckner to the San Francisco 49ers this week, raising questions about whether Taylor could follow.
The running back has spent his entire professional career, covering six and a half seasons, with Indianapolis since being selected in the second round of the 2020 draft. He said he had heard nothing about a possible move, while acknowledging that his desire to stay would not necessarily determine the outcome. “I'm always proud to wear the horseshoe, proud to be here,” Taylor said.
Taylor noted that Nelson and Buckner also valued playing for the Colts, yet both were traded. He expressed hope that he would avoid a similar departure while recognizing that the decision was beyond his control. The uncertainty has also affected his family. His wife, Ayanna, wrote on social media that her “mind is spiraling” amid discussion of a potential trade.
For now, Taylor must prepare for Sunday's divisional matchup against the Jacksonville Jaguars. Indianapolis enters Week 8 with a 2-5 record and is a substantial underdog following the two departures. Another defeat would further damage the team's fading playoff prospects as questions persist about the direction of the franchise.
The Colts have already dismissed general manager Chris Ballard during the season. Combined with the trades of two prominent players, that change has heightened attention on a possible rebuild and on which remaining members of the roster could be available before the Nov. 10 trade deadline.
Taylor described Nelson and Buckner as examples of the NFL's highest standards and expressed disappointment that the team had not achieved more with them. He said he wished he could have contributed more to winning alongside both players, particularly Nelson, whom he credited with helping establish the team's foundation.
Taylor's production makes him a potentially significant addition for any team seeking help at running back. He has led the NFL in rushing touchdowns twice, most recently last season. In 2021, he also finished first in rushing yards and received first-team All-Pro honors. With eight touchdowns through seven games this season, he is on a pace that could challenge his career best of 18.
Minnesota stands out as a possible destination because of its offensive needs and the opportunity to make use of an elite defense. Other teams could also seek an upgrade at running back before the deadline. Whether Indianapolis will make Taylor available remains unresolved.
