All-Pro running back Jonathan Taylor has reportedly requested a trade from the Indianapolis Colts. Taylor’s request comes after he didn’t receive a contract extension this offseason.
Taylor currently has one year left on his rookie deal that will pay him $4.3 million in base salary this upcoming season. He was hoping to land a lucrative new deal before the 2023 campaign starts, but the Colts never actually made him an offer.
Despite Taylor wanting out, that doesn’t seem like it will happen anytime soon. Colts’ owner Jim Irsay told the reporters that the team doesn’t intend to move the 24-year-old player.
“We’re not trading Jonathan… end of discussion. Not now and not in October!” said Irsay, according to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport.
Jonathan Taylor emerged as one of the best running backs in the league in 2021. He led the league in rushing yards (1,811 yards) and rushing touchdowns (18) en route to receiving Pro Bowl and First-Team All-Pro honors.
However, Taylor failed to replicate his success last season, managing only 861 rushing yards and four rushing TDs. Part of this was his struggles with injuries, as he missed six games with ankle issues. Also, he averaged just 4.5 yards per carry compared to 5.0 yards per carry in his rookie season and 5.5 yards per carry as a sophomore.
