In the midst of the 2021 NFL season, Jonathan Taylor emerged as a force to be reckoned with. The star running back won the NFL rushing title and was named All-Pro, solidifying his status as a critical player for the Indianapolis Colts. As he enters the final year of his rookie contract, the Colts face a pivotal decision: pay Taylor what he deserves or trade him away?
The Colts’ Dilemma: A Swift, Powerful, Smart Runner at Risk
Jonathan Taylor’s performance on the field has been nothing short of outstanding. He boasts an impressive 5.1 yards per carry average and nearly 1,300 rushing yards per season throughout his career. Despite these impressive numbers, Colts’ owner Jim Irsay is hesitant to pay or trade the 24-year-old running back. This standoff could potentially jeopardize Taylor’s future with the Colts.
Considering the Colts’ Shortcomings: Lack of RB Depth
While the Colts may have valid concerns about investing heavily in a running back, they must also consider their current lack of depth at the position. With Taylor currently on the Physically Unable to Perform list and backup Zack Moss missing up to six weeks after breaking his arm, the Colts find themselves with an inexperienced backfield. This could lead to a lack of continuity in their offense, a significant concern as they approach the regular season.
The Fallout: Damaging Messages and Impact on the Rookies
The Colts’ handling of the Taylor situation could send damaging messages to players and impact the development of their rookies. General Manager Chris Ballard has built the team around drafting, developing, and re-signing players, but failing to reward Taylor’s stellar performance might undermine this approach.
Moreover, the situation could have implications for the team’s first-year coach, Shane Steichen, and their young quarterback, Anthony Richardson. Taylor’s ability to move the chains and support Richardson’s growth is invaluable, and trading him away could hinder the young quarterback’s development.
A Potentially Better Path: Bury the Hatchet and Pay Him
Considering the risks involved in trading Taylor, the Colts might be better off burying the hatchet and paying him what he deserves. His on-field performance and contributions to the team speak volumes, making him a valuable asset worth the investment. Such a move would ensure the team’s stability and send a positive message to other players about the Colts’ commitment to rewarding performance and loyalty.
Exploring Trade Options: Potential Fits for Taylor
If the Colts decide to part ways with Taylor, seeking trade options becomes crucial. Several teams could benefit significantly from having Taylor on their roster. Among them, the Chicago Bears, Dallas Cowboys, Los Angeles Chargers, Los Angeles Rams, New England Patriots, and New York Jets stand out as potential suitors.
Chicago Bears: A Glaring Need at Tailback
The Bears, with an apparent need at tailback, could greatly benefit from Taylor’s presence. Adding Taylor to their roster would reduce the defensive attention on their young quarterback, Justin Fields, and improve their offensive attack. From their time together in Indianapolis, Taylor’s familiarity with Bears’ head coach, Matt Eberflus, could further enhance his impact on the team. Currently, the Bears running back situation is a bit murky, with Khalil Herbert slated to start Week 1.
Dallas Cowboys: A 1-2 Punch in the Backfield
The Cowboys have expressed a desire to focus on their running game under head coach Mike McCarthy. Taylor’s addition could create a formidable 1-2 punch in the backfield, complementing franchise-tagged Tony Pollard. Taylor’s presence would add depth and versatility to the Cowboys’ offense, making them a more competitive force in the NFC.
Los Angeles Chargers: Thunder-and-Lightning Combo
The Chargers, led by former Dallas Cowboys offensive coordinator Kellen Moore, could benefit from a thunder-and-lightning combo in their backfield regarding NFL spreads. Pairing Taylor with running back Austin Ekeler would create a dynamic rushing attack similar to what Moore employed in Dallas with Pollard and Ezekiel Elliott. This move could elevate the Chargers’ offensive prowess and potentially impact NFL spreads in their favor.
Los Angeles Rams: Boosting Offensive Production
The Rams have struggled to find a consistent rushing attack since Todd Gurley’s departure in 2018. Bringing in Taylor could provide a much-needed boost to their offensive production. With a salary cap that can accommodate a new deal for Taylor, the Rams have the resources to make this move.
New England Patriots: Seeking Offensive Identity
The Patriots have been actively exploring options to enhance their running game. While they have promising running back Rhamondre Stevenson, Taylor’s addition could give their offense a unique identity and better spacing for quarterback Mac Jones and the passing game.
New York Jets: Pushing for a Lombardi Trophy
The Jets have been making significant strides to build a championship-caliber team. Acquiring Taylor could further strengthen their roster and contribute to their pursuit of a Lombardi Trophy. The Jets are already displaying a desire to upgrade at the position by negotiating with free agent Dalvin Cook. Despite the potential investment required, Taylor’s impact on the team could be invaluable.
Conclusion: A Crossroads for the Colts and Taylor’s Future
The Jonathan Taylor saga has placed the Indianapolis Colts at a crossroads. While the team faces understandable concerns about investing heavily in a running back, the potential risks of trading Taylor outweigh the benefits.
Paying Taylor what he deserves could be the wiser path for the Colts, ensuring continuity in their offense and sending a positive message to players about loyalty and performance-based rewards. However, if the Colts opt to part ways with Taylor, they must explore trade options with teams that could significantly benefit from having him on their roster.
The outcome of this saga will not only impact the Colts’ future but also influence the trajectory of the players, coaches, and teams involved.
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