Indianapolis Colts running back Jonathan Taylor reported back pain during his pre-training camp physical that was deemed to be from an injury not sustained while playing for the team, according to NFL insider Stephen Holder of ESPN.
The Colts could place Taylor on the non-football injury list, which could result in Indianapolis withholding his salary. Taylor, who has requested a trade from the Colts, is entering the final season of his four-year rookie contract. He is slated to make $4.3 million this season, which ranks 18th among running back salaries in 2023.
One of the best players in the NFL, Taylor is extremely upset with his situation with the Colts and there is uncertainty about whether fences can be mended between him and the organization.
A one-time Pro Bowler, Taylor rushed for 861 yards last season and four touchdowns in 11 games. He is currently on the physically unable to perform list after undergoing ankle surgery. The 24-year-old has been the Colts’ most explosive playmaker since the team drafted him in the second round in 2020 out of Wisconsin. Taylor led the NFL with 1,811 yards and 18 touchdowns in 2021.
NFL NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Jonathan Taylor & Indianapolis Colts Updates
Since entering the NFL in 2020, Taylor ranks top five in touches (860), scrimmage yards per game (107.9) and scrimmage touchdowns (36). The only player in Colts history with more scrimmage yards and scrimmage touchdowns through his first three seasons is Hall of Famer Edgerrin James.
NFL NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Jonathan Taylor & Indianapolis Colts Updates
Colts owner Jim Irsay, who never minces words, went viral for the following quote after Taylor requested his trade: “If I die tonight and Jonathan Taylor is out of the league, no one’s gonna miss us. The league goes on. We know that. The National Football League rolls on. It doesn’t matter who comes and who goes, and it’s a privilege to be a part of it.”
Taylor has rushed for 3,841 yards and 33 touchdowns in 43 games with the Colts. He has also recorded 104 receptions for 802 yards and three touchdowns. Taylor is one of the best running backs in the NFL, so it’s going to be interesting to see how his trade request situation plays out.
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