Colts rumors: DeForest Buckner, Quenton Nelson ‘more likely’ to be traded than Jonathan Taylor appeared first on ClutchPoints. Add ClutchPoints as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
The Indianapolis Colts could be preparing for a major roster overhaul, but Jonathan Taylor might not be one of the players on his way out. According to NFL insider Ian Rapoport, defensive tackle DeForest Buckner and offensive guard Quenton Nelson are more likely to be traded as the franchise considers its future.
“The Colts view him (Jonathan Taylor) as a big part of their future turnaround,” Rapoport reported. “DeForest Buckner and Quenton Nelson are more likely to be traded. I know the San Francisco 49ers have some interest in Buckner. Nelson has a lot of interest from teams who need a guard.”
From The Aftermath on @nflnetwork: News and notes leading up to the NFL trade deadline, focusing in on the #Colts. pic.twitter.com/B3S9YjbSrT
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— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) October 26, 2026
The report offers a look at Indianapolis’ potential direction. Taylor remains a central piece of the offense, but moving Buckner or Nelson would signal that the Colts are willing to part ways with established veterans to reshape the roster.
Buckner is particularly interesting because of his connection to the San Francisco 49ers. He began his NFL career with San Francisco before being traded to Indianapolis in 2020, and a potential reunion would give the 49ers another opportunity to add a proven defensive lineman. Nelson, meanwhile, could draw interest from teams searching for an experienced guard to strengthen their offensive lines.
Trading either player would be a major decision for the Colts. Both have been key contributors throughout their careers, and moving them would leave holes on their respective sides of the ball. However, Indianapolis may decide that acquiring draft capital or other assets is more valuable than keeping veteran players as it looks to change its trajectory.
Even with quarterback Daniel Jones back healthy, the Colts have endured a frustrating stretch, raising questions about whether the current roster can deliver the results the organization expects. If the team believes its current core has reached its ceiling, trading recognizable names could be the first step toward a different approach.
Related: Shane Steichen confirms Daniel Jones is still Colts’ QB1 despite nightmare season
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