Jonathan Taylor trade rumors (Getty Images)
“I haven’t heard anything, and I can’t control that, obviously,” Taylor said. “I’m always proud to wear the horseshoe, proud to be here. And similar to Quenton [Nelson] and [DeForest Buckner], they were proud to wear the horseshoe, they were proud to be here. But obviously, circumstances may cause otherwise. So, hopefully that day may not come, but I can’t control that.”
Taylor is 27 and a three-time Pro Bowler. Fowler reported that teams he had spoken with were not convinced Indianapolis would trade Taylor, despite heavy interest. A first-rounder could also be the asking price, but that remains speculation, not a confirmed Colts demand.
Taylor was not requesting a trade. He was acknowledging that loyalty does not always decide a player’s future. He pointed to Kenneth Walker III’s move to Kansas City as an example of how a premier running back can quickly change a team’s outlook. Fowler also noted that the Colts’ difficult season could trigger further movement. Indianapolis would have little reason to accept a modest offer for a player of his standing. A second-round pick, perhaps with another selection attached, would be a reasonable starting point. Taylor’s comments did not suggest he expects to leave Indianapolis. They showed that he understands he cannot control the team’s plans. After the Nelson and Buckner trades, that distinction is no longer theoretical. The Colts hold the decision, and Taylor can only wait to see whether an offer changes their thinking.
His reference to Nelson and Buckner carried weight: Indianapolis moved both veterans earlier this week.