The Philadelphia Eagles have been linked to Indianapolis Colts’ star running back Jonathan Taylor for over a year.
The South Jersey native had a public dispute with owner Jim Irsay in the offseason, who recently granted permission to speak to other teams about a trade. Indianapolis is reportedly seeking a first-round pick in return for Taylor, who has one year remaining on his rookie deal.
Now, with one of the league’s premier running backs on the trade block, could Howie Roseman sneak in with an offer both Taylor and the Colts can’t resist?
The Colts must decide on a destination for Taylor before August 29 or this could turn into an ugly situation that spills into the regular season.
While it’s a nice fantasy for Eagles fans, there are a few reasons why a potential deal likely won’t materialize.
Let’s go over a few reasons why the Jonathan Taylor trade rumors probably won’t go anywhere.
1. The Running Back Room Is Deep And Talented
The Eagles have three running backs in the backfield with starting experience, including Kenneth Gainwell, who comes out of training camp as the team’s No. 1 RB.
D’Andre Swift and Rashaad Penny will likely factor into the equation more as the season wears on, giving Philadelphia three capable options in the backfield, when healthy.
Don’t forget about Boston Scott either.
2. Eagles Unlikely To Pay Taylor Top-Tier Money
With several players set to hit free agency in 2024, Philadelphia will have the money to extend Taylor if needed.
However, it would go against the way that the organization and the league have valued running backs in recent history.
With key members of the Eagles’ Super Bowl team, including Jason Kelce, Fletcher Cox, and Brandon Graham all due for free agency next year, Philadelphia’s cap space might be better served filling some other holes on the roster.
3. Adding Taylor Would Likely Be A 1-Year Rental
Simply put, a first-round pick is too steep of a price for a one-year rental.
Since the Eagles likely wouldn’t extend Taylor with a lucrative contract, a trade with the Colts would be an all-in gamble to win a Super Bowl this season.
With Week 1 around the corner, Taylor won’t be given any time to adjust to the Eagles’ offensive system, which would add even more risk to this deal.
If this drags on later in the season and the price drops considerably, it wouldn’t be a surprise to see Taylor wind up in an Eagles uniform.
Until then, fans in Philly may have to remain patient.
