Colts' Jonathan Taylor Practice Window Opens Amid Trade Speculation

The Indianapolis Colts open Jonathan Taylor’s practice window as trade rumors swirl. Will the star running back stay or go? Get the latest updates here.

The Indianapolis Colts are set to commence a 21-day practice window for their star running back, Jonathan Taylor, starting this Wednesday. Taylor’s surgically repaired ankle, which led to his placement on the physically unable to perform list, is now fully healed. This development comes amid Taylor’s earlier trade request during the offseason, although recent reports suggest that there have been no recent trade discussions between the Colts and other teams. Nevertheless, various teams continue to express interest in trading for Taylor and securing a new contract for the 24-year-old running back, potentially in line with the NFL’s top running backs.

Jonathan Taylor, who is in the final year of his rookie contract and due to earn approximately $4.3 million, remains keen on securing a new deal. The Colts have indicated their willingness to address this matter, but their immediate focus is on reintegrating the 2021 NFL rushing champion into practice and preparing him for upcoming games.

While the Colts are open to the possibility of a trade, no recent engagement has taken place with the two teams that previously made trade offers. The Green Bay Packers are no longer pursuing a trade, and the Miami Dolphins have not engaged in trade discussions with the Colts since before the start of the season.

The outcome remains uncertain once the practice window opens. The Colts have until Week 8 to either activate Taylor on their roster or execute a trade involving him.

Jonathan Taylor faced significant challenges in the 2022 season due to an ankle injury and ultimately underwent surgery in January. His trade request in July followed the Colts’ failure to offer him a contract extension, and he spent several days in August receiving out-of-state treatment for his ankle.

In recent weeks, Taylor has been diligently rehabilitating at the Colts’ facility, and the next step is his return to the field, which appears to be on track for the near future.

Throughout his three NFL seasons, Jonathan Taylor has amassed 3,841 rushing yards and 36 touchdowns, including a league-leading 1,811 rushing yards and 18 rushing touchdowns in the 2021 season.

Table: Jonathan Taylor’s NFL Career Highlights