Does trading for Jonathan Taylor make sense for the Packers?

August 31st, 2023, 8:38 AM CST ? By Ryan J. Van Dever

I completely understand why the Packers reportedly had and still have a “legitimate interest” in Jonathan Taylor. This year, particularly in Green Bay, is about trying to win now while also building for the future. Jordan Love will play an integral part in the offense and overall success of the group in coach Matt LaFleur's offense. The evolution of this offense will need to be seamless for the triumph of Jordan Love and the Packers offense.

Jonathan Taylor is 24 years old and in the last year of his rookie deal. He led the NFL in rushing yards and rushing touchdowns in 2021. Taylor played only 11 games last season because of an ankle injury that lingered all season. When healthy, he can be one of the most productive running backs in the NFL.

Aaron Jones, a great running back in his regard, is 28 years old. Jones has 213 carries for 1121 yards and two touchdowns. He has been in the league for six years and has been the feature running back since 2018. Jones has two seasons left on his second contract with the Packers. As the Packers continue to feature an aging running back, it may be time to move on to a younger, more explosive running back for the future in the name of Jonathan Taylor.

AJ Dillon, taken 21 picks after Taylor, is in the final year of his rookie contract but has yet to prove he can be a premier back in this league. Last year, in 2022, he had 186 carries for 770 yards and seven touchdowns. Taylor will miss the first four games of the season because he is on the physically unable to perform (PUP) list due to an ankle injury on which he had surgery in January.

I couldn't figure this conceivable transaction to be a rental for the Packers, but rather a long-term acquisition and investment in a running back who can make a fair case that he should be paid along the lines or possibly more than the game’s best, as he is trying to see the running backs market. Reports of what the Packers offered have yet to be released, but the Colts will likely want a good talent from a player and a pick or two hinging on such talent.

In other terms, don’t rule out that there could be a trade coming down the line for these two teams; it is the NFL, after all. The trade deadline isn't until 3 p.m. CT on Oct. 31. The Packers themselves have built a prominence for often being in the mix for players like these in years past, and with their unique starting quarterback Jordan Love progressing, adding a legitimate weapon at running back would not be out of the question.

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