New England Patriots RB search could lead to unlikely trade with AFC rivals

01 August 2023 , 22:27

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Rhamondre Stevenson may still be replaced as starter with Colts running back Jonathan Taylor wanting a new team (Image: 2022 Getty Images)

Jonathan Taylor could be an unlikely target for the New England Patriots, as his situation at the Indianapolis Colts goes from bad to worse.

The Patriots have been looking for a veteran running back for large parts of the offseason, expressing interest in Derrick Henry, Dalvin Cook, and even hosting Ezekiel Elliott. They still have Rhamondre Stevenson at their disposal, but it's thought that any respected veteran option would automatically become their starter.

But Taylor's name has since been discussed, with the 24-year-old still a much younger option than the veteran's they've already expressed interest in. The Colts would be reluctant to do business with an AFC rival, but if Taylor wants out that badly then they could secure some draft capital by letting him go, even if it is only a second-round pick.

Taylor's situation has been rocked by the injury to Zack Moss, as the Colts' back-up running back broke his arm in practice. Taylor has reportedly requested a trade from the Colts, and after being transferred initially to the injured list with 'back pain' the running back tweeted out: "Never had a back pain, never reported back pain."

It could be a better time than ever for teams to pursue a trade of Taylor, but it doesn't mean that the Colts won't let him go cheaply. The Patriots have emerged as a leading contender for Taylor, as Cook seems to be heading for the New York Jets and Elliott hasn't blown team personnel away.

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A team scout within the NFC believes that Taylor would fit in at the Patriots, and suggested they could be the team to keep an eye on. "Honestly, Taylor could play anywhere," a veteran NFC scout told FanBuzz. "But the Patriots may be a team to watch.

"He's a stud player, a stud person, can run, can catch, and he's even really good in pass protection." However, while that may be true, an NFC East personnel director claimed that Taylor may have to see out the remainder of his contract before moving teams.

Taylor's relationship has completely crumbled at the Colts (Getty Images)

"The problem for the Colts is that he's a terrific player, but Indy might not get his actual value in return," the director told FanBuzz. "Especially since he's going to want a new deal with only one year left on his current contract."

Taylor's relationship with the Colts has completely broken, with the running back one of many in his position to feel hard done by while other players elsewhere land large contracts. But rather than be understanding with Taylor, Colts owner Jim Irsay decided to say via The Athletic: "If I die tonight and Jonathan Taylor is out of the league, no one’s gonna miss us.

"The league goes on. We know that. The National Football (League) rolls on. It doesn’t matter who comes and who goes, and it’s a privilege to be a part of it."

Joseph McBride