Rams 'Express Interest' in Trade for Colts Star RB Jonathan Taylor

Are the Los Angeles Rams a potential suitor for Colts star running back Jonathan Taylor?

The Los Angeles Rams are in need of some running back help, and one of the NFL's best, Colts star Jonathan Taylor, might be an option.

According to reports, the Rams are among multiple teams who have 'expressed interest in trading for Taylor - an idea that could intrigue the Rams, who have been one of the league's worst rushing teams over the last few seasons. 

The Los Angeles #Rams have expressed interest in #Colts RB Jonathan Taylor.

— Destin Adams (@TheDestinAdams) August 24, 2023

Taylor, who issued a trade request this summer, was granted permission to seek a trade by Indianapolis earlier this week. 

But why is Taylor seeking an Indianapolis exit? Outside of his contract disputes, a controversial quote from Jim Irsay also may have played a role. 

“If I die tonight and Jonathan Taylor is out of the league, no one’s gonna miss us,” Irsay said, per The Athletic. “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.”

And those comments coming in the midst of an unsettling contract situation apparently did not sit well with Taylor

NFL Network's Ian Rapoport reported that Irsay and Taylor met at training camp aboard the Indianapolis owner’s private luxury bus as they attempt to calm the relationship between the two sides ... if not get down to negotiations. Taylor is in Year 4 of his rookie contract, with a full value of $7.8 million. He makes about $5 million this year - a steal - and is eligible for an extension.

But even if the Colts did decide to move Taylor, could the Rams pay the asking price? Would they even want to?

That is unlikely. with the running back market at an all-time low value, and the asking price for the 24-year-old is going to be astronomical for most teams interested in his talents. 

Meanwhile, the Rams are in the midst of trying to re-tool their roster, and just moved off of a handful of their star veterans this offseason.

That said, while giving up future assets and flexibility for a player whose position is losing value by the day seems like it could be a stretch, Les Snead has been known to make aggressive moves in the past. 

And if the asking price for Taylor is right, Snead could find a way to make a splash once again.

You can follow Matt Galatzan on Twitter @MattGalatzan

Want the latest in breaking news and insider information on the Rams? Click Here

Want to join in on the discussion? Click here to become a member of the Ram Digest message board community today!

Follow Ram Digest on Twitter and Facebook.

Want even more L.A. Rams news? Check out the SI.com team page here.