The relationship between the Indianapolis Colts and star running back Jonathan Taylor seems to be deteriorating before our eyes. Given the current state of the running back market, Taylor knows that no extension is coming from the Colts this offseason and there’s a strong chance the lucrative deal he is hoping for won’t be coming next year, either.
Colts general manager Chris Ballard listed off reasons Taylor wouldn’t be getting an extension, which likely irked the star running back. In the opinion of one Colts insider, what was once a very loveable fan favorite has turned into someone that people have become indifferent toward.
It is easy to see where the frustrations come from for Taylor, who is expected to be a big part of the Colts’ offense but not be compensated for it down the road. It is a tough spot and he certainly isn’t alone.
However, one Colts writer believes that the team should just cut bait now. Zach Hicks, the lead analyst for Colts coverage on Fan Nation, suggested that the team look to trade Taylor, regardless of what the return could be.
Hicks is certainly not wrong. No team needs distractions throughout training camp, which Taylor has unfortunately turned into. He is the main topic of conversation every day during press conferences as he is also currently on the physically unable to perform list, something that took even head coach Shane Steichen by surprise.
While agents are supposed to represent their clients in the best way possible, Taylor’s isn’t helping him in any way currently. The more issues that are caused now, the lower the likelihood of a long-term deal getting done.
Right now, the Colts hold all of the leverage. Taylor is coming off of an injury-riddled season and isn’t currently practicing with the team. Unless he turns in a performance similar to what he had in 2021 when he led the league in rushing and touchdowns, the same fate Tony Pollard, Saquon Barkley and Josh Jacobs met is likely heading for Taylor.