Could the Indianapolis Colts part ways with any player on their roster? When you dig into it, the answer is likely no one is truly untouchable. Some players might seem off-limits due to their value, but if the right offer comes along, who could resist?
This question came up after a Pro Football Focus article highlighted each NFL team’s top trade asset. For the Colts, that spotlight fell on running back Jonathan Taylor.
So, would Colts GM Chris Ballard ever consider trading his star running back? And if so, what would he need in return to make it happen?
Trading Jonathan Taylor: A Possibility for the Colts?
At first glance, trading Taylor seems improbable. He’s a franchise icon, fresh off a season where he racked up over 1,500 rushing yards and led the league in carries, rushing touchdowns, and rushing first downs.
Taylor is closing in on Edgerrin James for the most career rushing yards in Colts history. He already holds the record for the longest run and most career rushing touchdowns. His yards-per-carry average is unmatched among Colts with over 1,000 career rushing yards.
Taylor’s combination of power and speed makes him a threat every time he touches the ball. Off the field, his professionalism and humility shine. He’s a true team player, bouncing back stronger from injuries and representing the Colts with class.
Losing Taylor would leave a huge void. The Colts lack a backup capable of matching his impact. While Quenton Nelson holds similar value, the team might have better options to replace him than they do for Taylor.
Unlike the Michael Pittman trade, where Alec Pierce was ready to step up, there’s no heir apparent for Taylor.
Why Would the Colts Consider Trading Taylor?
In six seasons, Taylor has played in just one playoff game, back in his rookie year. Despite Taylor's talent, the Colts have struggled to build a complete team. Ballard has faced challenges, especially after Andrew Luck’s unexpected retirement.
Last season, while the offense was firing on all cylinders, the defense had glaring weaknesses. Ballard has been hesitant to start a full rebuild, but now he might have more pieces in place. He’s confident in his quarterback, has a playmaker in Alec Pierce, and a promising tight end in Tyler Warren, supported by a top-tier offensive line.
The secondary, plagued by injuries last year, should improve. However, the defensive front seven remains a concern, with much of the talent aging. Laiatu Latu is the only young, reliable player in that group.
What Could the Colts Get for Taylor?
Taylor is slightly older than Christian McCaffrey was during his trade from Carolina to San Francisco in 2022. While McCaffrey was a dual-threat, injuries were a concern. Taylor, after some early issues, has been durable recently.
Carolina received four draft picks for McCaffrey. Taylor might not fetch quite as much, but multiple mid-round picks could help Ballard revamp the defense. With smart drafting, the Colts could fill key gaps or even package picks to move up in the draft.
Taylor’s trade value will diminish next year, so if Ballard is considering a move, the time might be now. The running back position, once undervalued, has seen a resurgence with players like Kenneth Walker and Saquon Barkley playing pivotal roles in recent Super Bowl victories.
To be clear, there are no current rumors suggesting Ballard is shopping Taylor. But it’s understandable why PFF sees Taylor as the Colts’ most valuable asset. Trading him would be tough, but if the right offer comes along, it’s not off the table.