For the last few weeks, the Miami Dolphins have been mentioned as a potential suitor for Indianapolis Colts star running back Jonathan Taylor. Based on how poorly the Dolphins ran the ball last season, the fit made sense.
When healthy, Taylor has proven to be one of the most productive running backs in the NFL. He would instantly transform what was already an explosive Dolphins offense, taking them to another level.
However, the Dolphins’ need for a running back looks to not be as dire after the performance their backfield put on in Week 3. Raheem Mostert and rookie Devon Archane dominated the Denver Broncos during the team’s 70-20 historic rout.
The two combined for 31 carries and 285 rushing yards with five touchdowns. As pass catchers, the duo caught 11 passes for 90 yards and three more scores. It certainly doesn’t seem like Miami needs to make a move to add to their backfield, but should the need arise, Taylor is someone they should target.
In a recent piece done over at ESPN, insiders played the role of general manager, making offers to the Colts for Taylor. Two potential deals involving the Dolphins were suggested; one by Field Yates and one by Mike Tannenbaum.
Yates’ offer was a conditional 2024 second-round pick that could turn into a first-rounder. It would become a first-round pick if the Dolphins made the AFC Championship game. Tannenbaum’s offer was a second-round pick in the 2024 NFL Draft along with safety Jevon Holland.
The chance to receive a first-round pick, even if the odds aren’t very high, is enough for the Colts to accept Yates’ version of the Dolphins’ proposal. There is a lot of risk involved, as that second-round pick could be late in the draft given the direction that Miami is trending. However, a first-round pick, even if it is one of the last two of the round, has immense value.
This scenario would also provide the Colts with the flexibility to make some splashes this offseason. Having two first or second-round picks with a ton of salary cap flexibility would enable the team to be buyers, acquiring a high-upside player whose team cannot or won’t pay an extension, similar to what the Baltimore Ravens did ahead of the 2022 trade deadline acquiring Roquan Smith from the Chicago Bears.
