Jonathan Taylor has reportedly called for a trade. Jim Irsay, owner of the Indianapolis Colts, has now spoken clearly about his running back’s desire.

In 2021, Jonathan Taylor experienced his breakthrough with the Indianapolis Colts, leading the NFL in rushing yards (1,811), touchdowns (18) and yards per game (106.5).

Last season, the running back was unable to match his performance and, like the entire team, fell short of expectations.

Things are supposed to get better in 2023 – if Taylor has his way, but apparently not in Indianapolis.

As first reported by the “NFL Network”, the second-round pick of 2020 has already inquired about a trade earlier this week.

Colts owner Irsay clarifies, “Will not trade Jonathan Taylor “

However, Colts owner Jim Irsay put a stop to that, telling “ESPN”.

“We’re not going to trade Jonathan Taylor. That’s a fact. Not now and not in October,” the 64-year-old is quoted as saying, adding: “We’re looking forward to a great season and we hope Jonathan is a big part of it. We’re looking forward to hopefully having Jonathan with us. “

Indianapolis Colts: Taylor’s contract expires after 2023 season

Taylor’s rookie contract ends after the 2023 season, at which point he would be a free agent and potentially face the same problems as some position players who have been denied long-term contracts. Currently, an extension is not an issue, as Irsay made clear.

“This is not something we are currently discussing. It’s not a comment that has anything to do with the Jonathan Taylor situation. It’s about what my responsibility is. I’m responsible for everybody on the team and I have to look at the money we have and the contracts we make,” said Irsay, who told “ESPN” earlier this week, however, that “when your time comes to get paid, you’re going to get paid. “

Colts owner Irsay: “Doesn’t matter who comes and who goes “

Irsay concluded his remarks by saying, “If I die tonight and Jonathan Taylor leaves the league, nobody will miss us. The league will go on. We know that. The NFL goes on. It doesn’t matter who comes and who goes, and it’s a privilege to be a part of it.”

Currently, Taylor is on the PUP list after undergoing ankle surgery in the offseason. He still has some time to recover, with the Colts kicking off the 2023 NFL season on Sept. 10 against the Jacksonville Jaguars.