The Indianapolis Colts continued their plan of keeping running back Jonathan Taylor on the physically-unable-to-perform list ahead of the new season. Despite leading the NFL in rushing in 2021 and recording a total of 3,841 rushing yards for his career, Colts owner Jim Irsay seems to remain uninterested in negotiating with the Colts veteran star.
Though Jim might be looking like a hard soul due to Taylor’s contract dispute, he earned the respect of many after showcasing his kind gesture in the unsuccessful moving effort of a four-ton whale, named Toki.
Colts owner Jim Irsay updates on $20,000,000 whale rescue effort
The star of Miami Seaquarium Tokitae, also known by her performing name Lolita, died recently. Irsay has reportedly been an admirer of the killer whale and following her death, he shared an emotional farewell while expressing gratitude for the chance to be a part of her rescue operation.
“I am heartbroken that Toki has left us. Her story captured my heart, just as it did millions of others. I was honored to be part of the team working to return her to her indigenous home, and I take solace in knowing that we significantly improved her living conditions this past year. Her spirit and grace have touched so many. Rest in peace, dear Toki.”
I am heartbroken that Toki has left us. Her story captured my heart, just as it did millions of others. I was honored to be part of the team working to return her to her indigenous home, and I take solace in knowing that we significantly improved her living conditions this past…
— Jim Irsay (@JimIrsay) August 18, 2023
In March of 2023, the Colts owner signed a one-of-a-kind agreement to let Toki free into her home waters. Toki’s overall care required more than $20 million per month, albeit Jim didn’t halt back from showcasing his generosity and tried to make sure the whale was taken care of properly by taking financial responsibility.
What happened to the 4-ton whale ‘Toki’?
Toki was captured from her mother Ocean Sun at a young age and made to become a performer in an aquarium in 1970. She later managed to top the list for years as the oldest orca in captivity. Unfortunately, she exhibited serious discomfort for the last few days before leaving the world forever. She died on Friday possibly due to kidney failure per the website Friends of Toki. According to The Guardian, she was approximately 57 years old.
“Over the last two days, Toki started exhibiting serious signs of discomfort, which her full Miami Seaquarium and Friends of Toki medical team began treating immediately and aggressively. Despite receiving the best possible medical care, she passed away Friday afternoon from what is believed to be a renal condition.”
Over the last two days, Toki started exhibiting serious signs of discomfort, which her full Miami Seaquarium and Friends of Toki medical team began treating immediately and aggressively. Despite receiving the best possible medical care, she passed away Friday afternoon… pic.twitter.com/hx79OhGn2O
— Miami Seaquarium (@MiamiSeaquarium) August 18, 2023
The 21-foot, 8,000-pound orca was set to be freed after spending almost half-century in a tiny enclosure, albeit she, unfortunately, could not reach the Pacific Ocean. She lost her partner Hugo who suffered a brain aneurysm after constantly ramming his head into his tank, per USA Today.
What is Colts’ situation with RB Jonathan Taylor’s contract?
According to the Colts Wednesday’s statement, Jonathan left the training camp to attend to a personal matter and the team has permitted his leave. Though the veteran was involved in a contract dispute with Indianapolis, ESPN revealed the absence is not linked to the contract situation.
“Jonathan Taylor returned to Indianapolis to continue his rehab, however, he had a personal matter arise. He is not currently with the team and his absence is excused,” the statement said.
Colts RB Jonathan Taylor leaves training camp again with excused absence due to personal matterhttps://t.co/y8fGga5vOq pic.twitter.com/hxWxR1r6pl
— Around The NFL (@AroundTheNFL) August 16, 2023
The All-Pro RB has been seeking a contract extension from the Colts as a third-year player before the start of camp, but the team did not agree to sign a new deal. After witnessing a sour relationship with the franchise, he requested a trade but the Colts owner publicly denied to trade him recently.
Indianapolis is expected to start its regular season against the Jacksonville Jaguars on September 10. It remains to be seen what decisions they take for their 24-year-old star in the meantime. Do you think that the Colts should sign a new deal with Taylor? Let’s discuss below!
