Jonathan Taylor wants clarity as Colts weigh trade offers

Indianapolis Colts running back Jonathan Taylor said Thursday he wants an end to weeks of speculation about his future as the team discusses trade offers with multiple clubs ahead of the NFL trade deadline, according to ESPN. “No one wants uncertainty,” Taylor said, adding that the verdict would be known by Tuesday at 4 p.m. ESPN reported that the Colts are weighing offers as they seek to build up draft picks; no trade outcome had been reported in the accounts published Thursday.

Taylor said the discussion is difficult to avoid online, but he tries to block it out and focus on whatever task is in front of him. “You’re not going to avoid it, not until it’s all over,” he said, describing the trade talk as a persistent presence in his daily routine. ESPN reported that Taylor is among the players other teams are targeting as Indianapolis considers a broader reset.

Why the Colts are weighing offers

Taylor has remained productive despite the team’s record. Through eight games, he had 610 rushing yards and eight touchdowns on 148 carries, plus 21 receptions for 202 yards, ClutchPoints reported. He is the franchise’s career leader in rushing touchdowns and its second-leading rusher behind Edgerrin James, according to ESPN.

Taylor plans to play against Dallas

The Colts are due to host the Dallas Cowboys on Sunday. Taylor said his focus is winning and that he does not want outside factors to change how he plays. Coach Shane Steichen said Taylor would play, and Taylor confirmed his intention to suit up, ESPN reported.

That focus follows Indianapolis’ 42-7 loss at Jacksonville. Taylor had 23 rushing yards on eight carries and sat out the fourth quarter because of the large deficit, ESPN reported. ClutchPoints reported that Taylor called the chance to respond after the defeat his biggest goal. He said he would concentrate on the game rather than his personal situation, even if Sunday could be his last appearance for the Colts before the deadline.