Jonathan Taylor Is Officially Available And Bears Are An Expected Destination

One of the wildest stories of the 2023 off-season has been the rapid disintegration of the relationship between the Indianapolis Colts and star running back Jonathan Taylor. The guy was an All-Pro two years ago. He's widely considered one of the best at his position in the league. He rightfully feels he should be compensated with a new contract. Colts owner Jim Irsay not only refuses to entertain the idea but even went public with his thoughts that the organization wouldn't miss Taylor when he's gone. Since then, despite indications he is healthy, the 24-year-old hasn't practiced a single snap with the team.

The next step in their inevitable divorce occurred when the team granted Taylor permission to field trade offers from other teams. Of course, that was accompanied by rumors they'd be seeking compensation in the 1st round pick range despite not having nearly enough leverage to make such a demand. It's hard to say if any team will make a concerted effort on such a move, especially knowing Taylor seeks a lucrative contract extension. Still, sports bettors have picked their favorite landing spots, and the Chicago Bears are right at the top.

The Jonathan Taylor connection to Chicago is an easy leap.

Head coach Matt Eberflus was the defensive coordinator in Indianapolis for the running back's first two years there. He knows what the guy can do. The Bears also had the #1 rushing attack in the NFL last season. They like to pound the ball with that wide-zone scheme. A combination of Taylor and quarterback Justin Fields would be fun to watch. However, the details don't line up. Chicago likely doesn't feel they need Taylor. They already have two capable backs in Khalil Herbert and D'Onta Foreman. Rookie 4th round pick Roschon Johnson has played well in the preseason too.

Then there is the compensation. GM Ryan Poles wasn't willing to pay David Montgomery $6 million per year to stay in Chicago. Now he's going to turn around, give up the draft currency and pay Jonathan Taylor $12 million per year or more? The logic doesn't add up. Miami makes sense. They have a playoff-ready roster. Taylor could make them favorites to win the stacked AFC East. The Bears don't need him. He doesn't play a premium position and wouldn't suddenly make them Super Bowl contenders.