Former Teammate Advocates for Jonathan Taylor Trade to Contender if Colts Move Star Running Back

The NFL trade deadline is rapidly approaching, with teams facing a Tuesday 4 p.m. ET cutoff to finalize transactions that could shape the remainder of their season. As organizations categorize themselves as either buyers or sellers, the Indianapolis Colts have clearly signaled their position as sellers. Much attention is focused on the future of their All-Pro running back, Jonathan Taylor.

The central question remains whether Taylor will conclude the season in Indianapolis or if a Super Bowl hopeful will meet the Colts' valuation to acquire his services. Reports indicate that Colts owner Carlie Irsay-Gordon, who has previously approved trades for prominent players like guard Quenton Nelson and defensive tackle DeForest Buckner, is now reportedly fielding inquiries for Taylor and wide receiver Josh Downs. However, Taylor has consistently generated the most significant trade speculation since the Colts embarked on a rebuilding phase.

The decision facing Irsay-Gordon and interim General Manager Ed Dodds regarding a potential Taylor trade was recently discussed with former Colts quarterback Nick Foles. Foles, who has been closely observing the situation, shared his perspective in an interview where he also previewed his upcoming role as an analyst for Netflix's inaugural NFL Thanksgiving Eve game later this month.

A Former Teammate's Perspective

Foles reflected on the dual perspective of his former teammate's situation:

"Man, now I have to put on a business mind, right? As a person who was his teammate, I would never trade him ‘cause I know just what he brings to the team as a leader and as a player. But as a personnel decision maker, he’s getting older as a running back, and if you can get something super value like a high draft pick for him – you are in rebuild. You’ve already shown that. I feel like you’re going to do it."

"That pains me to say."

Should the Colts ultimately decide to move on from the 27-year-old running back, Foles articulated a specific request.

"Please send Jonathan to a team that’s a contender," Foles stated emphatically. "Give him that opportunity, right? Like he deserves that opportunity."

He continued:

"If they do, he will be dearly missed in Indianapolis because of the quality of human being, teammate, and player he is. But I can definitely see her doing it from a business perspective in this rebuild to just get some draft capital."

Colts' Demands and Potential Suitors

Reports suggest that Indianapolis is seeking a substantial return for Taylor, comparable to the package the San Francisco 49ers sent to the Carolina Panthers for Christian McCaffrey. That notable 2022 deadline transaction involved a 2023 second, third, and fourth-round pick, alongside a 2024 fifth-round selection.

A contending team possessing significant draft capital might justify such an investment, especially considering Taylor's potential to be secured through the 2028 season. This would represent more than just a short-term acquisition, extending two years into the future before any potential contract extension discussions.

Among the teams reportedly active in the trade market are the New York Giants, who currently hold the top position in the NFC East and could benefit from adding an elite running back to bolster their offense both immediately and for the long term. The Denver Broncos and Minnesota Vikings are also among those rumored to have an interest in Taylor. However, the trade deadline is rapidly approaching, emphasizing the urgency of any potential deal.

The question of which party, if any, will yield to the other's demands makes the deadline particularly captivating for NFL enthusiasts, including Foles, who eagerly anticipates the final team rosters post-deadline.

Foles Prepares for Analyst Role

Foles is also looking forward to his analyst responsibilities on November 25, when he will join fellow former NFL players Clay Matthews and Michael Irvin, alongside Elle Duncan, as part of the broadcast team for the significant Los Angeles Rams vs. Green Bay Packers game. This new NFL holiday tradition will also feature U2 celebrating their 50th anniversary with a halftime performance and special guests from the 50-yard line.

By then, team rosters will have undergone changes, and the subsequent weeks will reveal the efficacy of any trade deadline acquisitions.