The Indianapolis Colts have made notable moves to reward key players with contract upgrades, focusing on securing talent essential for their success. Jonathan Taylor, their star running back, is at the forefront of these efforts. After a tumultuous offseason filled with trade rumors and a holdout over contract negotiations, the Colts reached an agreement with Taylor on a lucrative extension. This deal makes Taylor one of the highest-paid running backs in the NFL, reflecting his critical role in the Colts’ offense. His contributions on the field have been undeniable, making it crucial for the team to retain him despite the earlier tensions.
This contract extension aligns with Colts general manager Chris Ballard’s philosophy of rewarding high-performing players. Ballard has consistently prioritized building and maintaining a roster filled with dependable contributors, especially players who form the foundation of the team’s future. Taylor’s deal is a testament to that strategy, ensuring that the offense will have its dynamic backfield leader for the coming seasons.
Other players are also poised for potential contract upgrades, depending on their performances in the 2024 season. Dayo Odeyingbo, a key defensive lineman, is one such player. Odeyingbo is entering the final year of his rookie contract and has shown considerable potential, even with limited playing time. If he continues to progress, the Colts may move to lock him in with a long-term deal before other teams can swoop in.
Ryan Kelly, the team’s center and the longest-tenured player on the roster, is another candidate for a contract extension. Kelly had a bounce-back season in 2023 and remains a critical part of the offensive line. Although the Colts drafted Wisconsin’s Tanor Bortolini as a potential future replacement, Kelly’s performance in 2024 could lead to the team offering him a short-term extension to maintain continuity on the offensive line.
Additionally, safety Julian Blackmon, who signed a one-year deal, will aim to secure a long-term contract if he can stay healthy and deliver a strong season. Despite not landing the multi-year deal he sought in free agency, Blackmon’s value to the defense remains high, and a good season could pave the way for a more substantial contract next year.