The Indianapolis Colts put star running back Jonathan Taylor on the market, and it appears the Miami Dolphins have shown the most interest in making a potential trade for the 24-year-old.
While ESPN’s Stephen Holder previously reported the Dolphins were among two teams to have made offers so far for the former rushing champion, Barry Jackson of The Miami Herald reported that talks are ongoing between the two sides.
Talks with Miami and Colts are ongoing. Whether Miami is willing to meet Colts' demands must play out, but Dolphins trying to get deal done. https://t.co/UBYyyGSXFg
— Barry Jackson (@flasportsbuzz) August 23, 2023
The Dolphins have been interested in adding a veteran piece to their backfield all offseason. They were in on Dalvin Cook after he was released by the Minnesota Vikings, and they reportedly looked into trading for Josh Jacobs, who has yet to sign his franchise tender with the Las Vegas Raiders.
Furthermore, Omar Kelly of Sports Illustrated believes the Dolphins “seem willing to give the former Wisconsin standout the $12-14 million a year contract,” which is the biggest hurdle for inquiring teams.
How they will pull that off as a team projected to be $32 million over the salary cap for 2024 remains to be seen, but teams have finessed the salary cap for years so it’s not impossible.
Teams trading for Taylor will have to pay up. The Colts are seeking a first-round pick or a package similar in value. The team has given Taylor a soft deadline of Tuesday, Aug. 29, which is when roster cuts are made. It’s also when the Colts will have to make a decision on Taylor’s status regarding the PUP list.
