The Indianapolis Colts failed to trade superstar running back Jonathan Taylor on Tuesday. Colts general manager Chris Ballard and Taylor’s representation had agreed to a mid-afternoon deadline while NFL rosters were being trimmed from 90 down to 53. An offer that met the Colts’ rich asking price never arrived and Taylor will now remain on the Physically Unable to Perform (PUP) list, ruling him out for a minimum of four regular-season contests.

The Colts’ next-best opportunity to trade Taylor could occur in mid-to-late October during the NFL trade deadline (Oct. 31). Several contending franchises could revisit talks with the Colts depending on their midseason record. We’ve swiftly identified three potential future fits.

MIAMI DOLPHINS

The Dolphins were allegedly the most interested team in acquiring Taylor but ultimately refused to negotiate on Indianapolis’ terms. It’s easy to understand why the Dolphins have an interest in Taylor. Head coach Mike McDaniel is a former run-game coordinator who saw his Dolphins average an unacceptable 26th-ranked 99.2 rushing yards per game last season.

The Dolphins haven’t done much to improve their backfield personnel this offseason. They re-signed Raheem Mostert and drafted De’Von Achane, but the rookie running back has already suffered an injury that will sideline him for multiple weeks. Acquiring Taylor would elevate McDaniel’s rushing attack.

The fit makes sense. The Dolphins are in win-now mode after acquiring the likes of Tyreek Hill, Jalen Ramsey, and Bradley Chubb via trade over the previous two campaigns. The Dolphins should be in a midseason race for the AFC East division title alongside the Buffalo Bills and New York Jets. Getting Taylor at the deadline may provide the final push they need.

BUFFALO BILLS

The Bills offense was too one-dimensional last season. Buffalo’s inability to consistently run the football with success directly contributed to their disappointing divisional-round defeat to the Cincinnati Bengals. I’m not convinced general manager Brandon Beane did enough to improve the personnel this offseason.

James Cook is expected to make a jump as a sophomore. Will Damien Harris and Latavius Murray prove capable of rounding out an effective backfield committee? The Bills were linked to Christian McCaffrey last trade deadline but decided against paying Carolina’s steep asking price. Perhaps Buffalo would have won the Super Bowl had they taken the plunge. Beane may get a second opportunity to acquire a difference-making running back midseason.

LOS ANGELES RAMS

The Rams expressed interest in trading for Taylor, according to multiple reports. The Rams finalized their initial 53-man roster on Tuesday. Analyzing the depth chart indicates head coach Sean McVay could undoubtedly use more help at the running back position.

A returning Cam Akers is expected to be the starter. Sophomore Kyren Williams is also present, as is rookie ball-carrier Zach Evans. Rams general manager Les Snead has always flashed a penchant for bold acquisitions. That attitude helped him win a Super Bowl. If the Rams are still in the race for the ever-competitive NFC West division come late October (that’s the real kicker here), we can totally see them reigniting talks to acquire Taylor.