SI:AM | Jonathan Taylor’s Trade Request Is a Tall Order

Plus, the Angels’ playoff hopes keep fading.

Good morning, I’m Kevin Sweeney, filling in again for Dan Gartland. Our shortened newsletter this morning zooms in on a big-name running back potentially on the move.

In today’s SI:AM:

🐴 Jonathan Taylor’s trade request looms large

⚾ Why the Angels’ deadline moves weren’t enough

🏈 Harbaugh takes self-imposed three-game ban

Stephen R. Sylvanie/USA TODAY Sports

Latest on Jonathan Taylor’s trade request

Colts star running back Jonathan Taylor is officially on the market, with the organization granting him permission to seek a trade. This comes after Taylor and the Colts hit a wall in negotiations for a contract extension in yet another example of a star running back not receiving the big payday he desires.

This certainly doesn’t mean Taylor will be dealt. As Sports Illustrated’s Conor Orr wrote, Indianapolis’s unwillingness to pay top dollar for a running back is far from unique around the league, so it’s hard to envision another team meeting Taylor’s demands. Plus, any potential deal has to make sense for the Colts, which are reportedly seeking a first-round pick in return. If teams don’t want to spend big on a free-agent running back, why would they pay Taylor and give draft compensation? This may be Taylor’s only option for higher pay, but that doesn’t mean it’s likely to work.

Nevertheless, there exist a few historical instances that Taylor could draw upon for guidance. The 49ers spent big to acquire Christian McCaffrey midseason last year, and Taylor’s ability out of the backfield makes him a comparable weapon. Maybe the right team has an untimely injury and decides investing in Taylor is its best chance of competing for a championship. Big deals for running backs are growing rare but aren’t impossible.

One reported potential landing spot: Miami, where the Dolphins are expected to explore a move for the star back. The Dolphins have one of the league’s most exciting offenses already, with dynamic wide receivers Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle teaming up with Tua Tagovailoa. Add in a star running back, and things could get scary in a hurry for opposing defenses.

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