The trade deadline is less than two weeks away, and the Indianapolis Colts are open for business. After a disappointing start to the season, the Colts are reportedly willing to listen to offers for their star running back, Jonathan Taylor. According to NFL Network's Ian Rapoport, "many teams" will be interested if Taylor is made available, but the asking price is steep: at least a Day 1 pick.
Taylor has been a force since entering the league in 2020, amassing over 8,000 rushing yards and 76 touchdowns. Last season alone, he rushed for 1,585 yards and 18 scores on 323 carries. Even as the Colts struggle, Taylor continues to produce at an elite level, making him an attractive trade target for contenders in need of a ground game.
Rapoport explained on The Pat McAfee Show that the Colts are looking to recoup the first-round pick they gave up in the Sauce Gardner trade. "You know the goal. They don't have a No. 1 pick because of [the] Sauce [Gardner trade]. You know that's what they're going to try to get back," he said. "If they have the kind of market that players never have during the season, maybe they can get it. Maybe they get a No. 1 pick and give something back."
So which teams should pick up the phone? Here are three that make the most sense.
New York Giants: Win-Now Mode
The Giants are currently atop the NFC East, but their offense has been inconsistent. With Jaxson Dart lost for the season, they need a reliable playmaker to take pressure off the passing game. SNY's Connor Hughes reports that New York is expected to pursue a running back before the Nov. 10 deadline. Adding an All-Pro like Taylor would give John Harbaugh's squad a massive boost and could be the missing piece for a deep playoff run. The Giants' front office has already shown a willingness to make bold moves, and this would be another one. As Wink Martindale has urged, a blockbuster trade for Taylor could be exactly what the doctor ordered.
Seattle Seahawks: Replacing a Legend
The Seahawks are feeling the absence of Kenneth Walker III, the reigning Super Bowl MVP who is sidelined. While they invested a first-round pick in Jadarian Price, he's not ready to carry the load. Taylor would immediately give Seattle a balanced attack and keep their offense dangerous. The Seahawks have the assets to make a deal, and with their defense already stout, adding Taylor could make them a legitimate Super Bowl contender. It's a move that would signal they're all-in for this season.
Minnesota Vikings: An Offensive Juggernaut
If the Vikings are serious about contending in the NFC, they need to improve their offensive production. Adding Taylor to a group that already features Justin Jefferson would be downright scary. Head coach Kevin O'Connell could use both Taylor and Aaron Jones in a dynamic backfield, creating mismatches for opposing defenses. Minnesota has the cap space and draft capital to make a splash, and with the deadline approaching, they might just swing for the fences. As ESPN insiders have suggested for other trades, the Vikings could be the team that makes the boldest move.
The Colts' decision to shop Taylor is a clear sign they're looking toward the future. With the front office in flux, they may want to start fresh. For teams like the Giants, Seahawks, and Vikings, acquiring Taylor could be the difference between a playoff exit and a championship parade. The next few days will be crucial, as the trade deadline looms and the market for elite running backs heats up.
Will any of these teams pull the trigger? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: Jonathan Taylor's next destination could reshape the NFL landscape.
