Jonathan Taylor rushes for 610 yards as Colts face trade deadline
The running back has eight touchdowns in seven games, but a decision on his future is due by Tuesday afternoon.
By Leah Thompson ·
Running back Jonathan Taylor is playing his final home game before a league deadline forces the Indianapolis Colts to decide his future. The 2-6 team hosts the 3-5 Dallas Cowboys at Lucas Oil Stadium on Sunday, Nov. 8, at 1 p.m. local time. If the organization moves him, Taylor will leave the stadium for the last time after the final whistle.
Taylor has rushed for 610 yards and scored eight touchdowns in his seventh season in Indianapolis. His production stands in contrast to the team’s recent roster changes. General Manager Chris Ballard was fired, and the club has already traded two major players. Guard Quenton Nelson went to Seattle, and defensive tackle DeForest Buckner was sent to San Francisco.
The NFL trade deadline arrives on Tuesday, Nov. 10, at 4 p.m. The Colts must finalize any deal involving Taylor by then. The player said he tries to keep external noise from affecting his performance. He maintains a consistent weekly routine that he believes has worked throughout his career.
“You try not to think about that because you don’t want external factors creeping in and trying to alter your play,” Taylor said. He added that changing his pregame routine to account for rumors would add unnecessary variables.
Taylor acknowledged the emotional weight of playing in front of a home crowd with his status in flux. He said he takes pride in the effort of the fans and wants to provide a quality product. He emphasized that home games require a specific level of appreciation that away games do not.
“It’s always emotional because you run out there and you see all of those fans and you realize they’re all here to see a great product,” Taylor said. He stated that he never takes a game for granted, regardless of the location, but home contests are distinct.
The player said the team is now focused entirely on the upcoming matchup. He noted that the preparation work is complete and the priority is securing a victory for the supporters. The Colts will have 48 hours after the game ends to determine whether Taylor stays in Indianapolis or is traded to another team.
