Indianapolis Colts sign star RB Jonathan Taylor to 2-year, $44M extension

Indianapolis Colts have agreed to a two‑year contract extension with star running back Jonathan Taylor worth $44 million, a deal that could reach $47 million with performance incentives. The agreement guarantees $39 million and secures one of the league’s top rushers for the foreseeable future. Taylor’s relationship with the club had been strained after tense negotiations during the 2023 offseason, when he initially sought a trade before ultimately returning to Indianapolis. The team later reached a long‑term understanding with him, and Taylor has reiterated his desire to remain with the franchise. The new pact underscores the Colts’ commitment to a player who has become a central piece of their offense. A three‑time Pro Bowl selection, Taylor is nearing a significant franchise milestone, approaching the rushing total held by Hall of Fame back Edgerrin James. Since being selected in the second round of the 2020 NFL Draft out of Wisconsin, he has accumulated over 3,000 rushing yards and 32 touchdowns in the last two seasons. The extension places Taylor among the NFL’s highest‑paid running backs, with an average annual value of $22 million. It follows a broader trend of substantial investments at the position, highlighted by the lucrative contract recently awarded to Atlanta Falcons’ Bijan Robinson, as clubs reassess the premium placed on elite backfield talent.