Indianapolis Colts coach Shane Steichen said Tuesday that running back Jonathan Taylor will continue to play his usual role despite being at the center of trade talks with multiple teams.
Steichen was pressed about the organization's approach with Taylor, who played 38 snaps in the Colts' 42-7 loss Sunday to the Jacksonville Jaguars. Steichen said there has been no change to the Colts' plan for Taylor in Week 9 against the Dallas Cowboys. "There's a lot of stuff out there right now," Steichen said of speculation surrounding Taylor. "He's on our football team and he's excited for this opportunity to go play. He wants to go win this game."
Taylor has attracted trade interest from numerous teams since the Colts (2-6) signaled in recent weeks that they are directing their focus toward the future. The Colts fired general manager Chris Ballard last month and traded veterans Quenton Nelson and De Forest Buckner last week. Receiver Josh Downs has also requested a trade, though he played last Sunday and is expected to play against Dallas. "I'm focused on now," Downs said Wednesday.
Steichen acknowledged the Arizona Cardinals' recent decision to hold Marvin Harrison Jr. out of a game after a trade involving the receiver had been agreed to with the Houston Texans. He said there have been no conversations to that effect between himself and the Colts' front office. "During this time of year, people are going to call," he said. "That's just part of the business. But, again, you've got to be a professional and show up to work."
Source: ESPN NFL · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing