Jonathan Taylor’s expected departure from the Indianapolis Colts before the NFL’s Nov. 10 trade deadline has several storylines attached. One of the biggest is the Green Bay Packers’ reported interest in the running back—and what that could mean for Josh Jacobs.
Green Bay’s pursuit of Taylor, if it advances, would suggest the team is considering moving on from Jacobs. The 28-year-old has appeared in two games this season after spending the first six weeks on the Commissioner’s Exempt List.
Jacobs was placed on the list after pleading no contest in September to battery and criminal-damage-to-property charges related to a May incident involving his former girlfriend. The NFL is also reviewing additional allegations that he physically abused three other women. Police records released Oct. 30 indicated that the women had reported alleged physical or verbal abuse in incidents dating back to 2021.
Jacobs’ attorneys said Saturday that police had reviewed the claims and proceeded with only two misdemeanor charges. The NFL’s review under its Personal Conduct Policy is separate, however, and could result in a suspension. The newer allegations may also be considered.
The situation has become a growing concern for Green Bay. Taylor, meanwhile, is among the NFL’s leading rushers and shares the league lead with eight rushing touchdowns. The Packers’ apparent interest suggests they may see him as a more reliable option, especially with Jacobs’ playing status uncertain.
The more difficult question may be what Green Bay would give up to acquire Taylor. Indianapolis is reportedly looking for a package comparable to what the San Francisco 49ers paid for Christian McCaffrey in 2022: second-, third- and fourth-round picks in 2023, plus a fifth-rounder in 2024.
If the Packers are willing to meet that price, moving on from Jacobs could make financial sense as well. Releasing him by the deadline could save the team roughly $5 million against the cap, though Green Bay would still have dead-cap costs this year and next. The savings in 2027, the final season of Jacobs’ contract, could be about $13 million.
For the Packers, Taylor would offer an upgrade at running back, while a change could also help the team avoid the uncertainty surrounding Jacobs’ legal situation. Their reported interest in Taylor may be a sign they are weighing both possibilities.
