Indianapolis Colts All-Pro running back, Jonathan Taylor, has returned to practice after a lengthy contract standoff. As he prepares to be activated from the physically unable-to-perform list, there’s growing excitement in the Colts’ locker room about the impact of his return.
Jonathan Taylor’s relationship with the Colts has been strained since May when the team declined his request for a contract extension. Despite the off-field tension, his teammates have shown unwavering support. “As far as how everyday business has gone, it’s the NFL,” said tight end Mo Alie-Cox. “We’ll always welcome you back with open arms.”
Linebacker Zaire Franklin echoed this sentiment, saying, “I’m looking forward to competing against him again. J.T. makes me better… iron sharpens iron, and there’s no better player in the league to get better against.”
Colts’ coach Shane Steichen has also softened his stance on Jonathan Taylor, praising the running back’s skills. “He’s a big-time player. He’s explosive and has great vision and power. He’s undoubtedly one of the top backs in this league,” Steichen said.
With all four AFC South teams at 2-2, the Colts see Taylor as a potential game-changer, especially for rookie dual-threat quarterback Anthony Richardson. “Any running back that’s running the ball well opens up the passing game,” said Richardson.
Patriots Reacquire CB J.C. Jackson from Chargers
The New England Patriots have pulled off a trade with the Los Angeles Chargers, bringing cornerback J.C. Jackson back into their fold. The Patriots are sending a 2025 sixth-round pick to the Chargers in exchange for Jackson and a 2025 seventh-round pick.
To facilitate the trade, the Patriots and Chargers are adjusting Jackson’s 2023 salary. New England will cover around $1.5 million, while the Chargers will handle the remainder in the form of a signing bonus. Jackson’s contract, running through 2026, remains unchanged.
This trade comes after a disappointing spell for Jackson with the Chargers. After a stellar career with the Patriots, Jackson faced legal troubles, injury woes, and underwhelming performance in Los Angeles. Last season, he allowed a career-worst 149.3 passer rating when targeted before a season-ending knee injury.
The Chargers’ decision to bench Jackson further strained their relationship. Jackson was inactive for the first time since his rookie season in the Chargers’ Week 3 game against the Minnesota Vikings. Despite being signed to shadow top receivers, he didn’t play against Justin Jefferson.
Patriots’ players have expressed their excitement about Jackson’s return. Linebacker Jahlani Tavai said, “I’m excited to see him back in a Patriot uniform.” Quarterback Mac Jones added, “He taught me a lot my rookie year. He is very unique — fast, aggressive, and has a great knack for the ball.”
The Patriots will face the New Orleans Saints this Sunday, giving Jackson a chance to face his former team when they play the Chargers on December 3.
Broncos to Release Randy Gregory Amid Youth Movement Jonathan Taylor
The Denver Broncos’ hopes of Randy Gregory becoming an elite pass-rusher have ended as they plan to release the outside linebacker. Gregory and his representatives requested his release earlier this week.
The decision to release Gregory comes after discussions between coach Sean Payton, general manager George Paton, and owner/CEO Greg Penner. Gregory, 30, signed a five-year, $70 million contract in March 2022. His $14 million base salary this season and another $5 million next season are fully guaranteed.
Gregory’s performance has been subpar this season, with just nine tackles and one sack in four games. The Broncos’ defense ranks at the bottom of various statistical categories, including pass rush win rate.
Second-year outside linebacker Nik Bonitto replaced Gregory in the starting lineup, making an immediate impact with 2.5 sacks and a forced fumble. Bonitto and Jonathon Cooper are now the starters at outside linebacker.
Despite the high hopes for Gregory, his career has been marred by injuries and suspensions. He has never played a full season and has never started more than 11 games or finished with more than six sacks in a season.
The Broncos are hopeful that the return of injured players like Frank Clark and Baron Browning can improve their defensive performance.