It’s looking more and more likely that running back Jonathan Taylor won’t be playing with the Indianapolis Colts in 2023. Taylor, who led the NFL in rushing two seasons ago, endured an injury-riddled 2022 campaign. Despite the promising start to his career, Taylor has become unhappy in Indianapolis and requested a trade last month. The Colts have finally given Taylor permission to talk to other teams about a trade but set a deadline of Tuesday, August 29, which is when NFL rosters must be cut to 53 players, for a deal to happen.
With the wheels in motion, Taylor’s saga has become one of the most intriguing plot lines in the lead-up to the new NFL season. Fans and bettors alike are closely following his journey, and American top sportsbooks are abuzz with activity as they offer competitive odds and enticing promotions for those looking to wager on Taylor’s performance. The anticipation in the sports betting world is palpable, making this season one for the books.
The Dolphins appear to be the most likely destination. Miami has had trouble finding a consistent rushing attack in recent years. The Dolphins are heading into the season with Raheem Mostert and Jeff Wilson Jr. at the top of the depth chart while rookie De’Von Achane is hurt. The Dolphins have a clear need for a running back, although they don’t have a lot of draft capital to use in a potential trade with Indy.
The Bears, on the other hand, have plenty of draft picks that could be offered to the Colts in exchange for Taylor. Chicago had one of the best rushing attacks in the NFL last year thanks to quarterback Justin Fields and running back David Montgomery. However, the Bears lost Montgomery in free agency and could use Taylor as his replacement rather than relying on backup Khalil Herbert to step into the starting role. There is no question that Taylor would be in a position to succeed with the Bears while also receiving the type of contract he covets.
Tampa Bay is another team that has an obvious need for a running back. The Buccaneers appear poised to enter the season with Rachaad White, a third-round pick in last year’s draft, as the starter. They don’t have many proven options at the running back position on the roster, making Taylor a welcomed addition. However, the Bucs aren’t necessarily set up to win right now, as they have an unsettled quarterback situation after Tom Brady retired. It may not be wise for the Bucs to use their limited draft capital to acquire Taylor, even if he would provide a huge boost to their 2023 chances.
Finally, the Broncos are another team that could become a factor in the Taylor trade sweepstakes. Denver is poised to use Javonte Williams and Same Perine as the team’s primary running backs this season. However, Williams is coming off a serious knee injury last year while Perine has never been anything more than a backup in the NFL. That gives the Broncos a clear need for a running back like Taylor. But much like Miami, the Broncos are short on draft capital, making a trade for Taylor tricky.
In addition to the four teams mentioned, the Ravens, Cowboys, Commanders, and Bills could all be considered candidates to trade for Taylor before Tuesday. However, while several teams could use a running back like Taylor, each team also has reasons why acquiring him will be difficult. With the Colts putting a tight deadline on a trade happening, it’s possible that Indy won’t be able to complete a trade for Taylor before the start of the NFL season.