The Indianapolis Colts are seeking a "Christian McCaffrey-type package" in draft picks for star running back Jonathan Taylor, according to NFL Network's Ian Rapoport. Several teams have expressed significant interest in Taylor, but the Colts have not yet received an offer that meets their valuation.
Rapoport reported that the Colts want a collection of picks similar to what the Carolina Panthers received for McCaffrey in 2022. The Panthers traded McCaffrey to the San Francisco 49ers for second-, third-, fourth-, and fifth-round selections. While that deal did not include a first-round pick, the combined value of the multiple picks was substantial.
The Giants are among the teams reportedly interested in acquiring Taylor, with the Packers, Broncos, Vikings, and Seahawks also linked to the running back. A trade could occur before the November 10 deadline.
While the Colts are aiming high in their trade demands, there are differences between the Taylor and McCaffrey situations. McCaffrey was 26 at the time of his trade and had more receiving yards than Taylor has in his career. Taylor is 27 and has two and a half years remaining on his contract. Teams could look to extend his deal, as the 49ers did with McCaffrey.
Despite listening to offers, the Colts reportedly do not wish to trade Taylor, viewing him as a core part of their team. However, with their first-round pick already headed to the Jets as part of the Sauce Gardner trade, the Colts may be looking to acquire significant draft capital to facilitate a future rebuild.