Colts RB Jonathan Taylor plans to stay the course in Indianapolis despite turbulent week

INDIANAPOLIS (AP) — Indianapolis Colts running back Jonathan Taylor plans to remain with the team despite a turbulent week, according to multiple reports. The three-time Pro Bowl selection has not requested a trade and is focusing on football amid recent roster changes, including the departure of longtime teammates Quenton Nelson and DeForest Buckner. Taylor emphasized his commitment to the Colts during a Thursday press conference, stating, “I’m always proud to wear the horseshoe. No one is going out there, waving the white flag of surrender. We’re going out there to compete.”

The Colts, who entered the week with a 2-5 record, have been reshaping their roster. Nelson, a three-time All-Pro left guard, was traded to Seattle for a 2027 third-round draft pick and a 2028 fifth-rounder, while Buckner, a 32-year-old defensive end, was sent to San Francisco for a 2027 fourth-rounder. Both players were on expiring contracts, unlike Taylor, who signed a two-year, $44 million extension in August that runs through 2028. The 27-year-old remains a key figure in the team’s plans, leading the league with eight touchdown runs this season and ranking fifth in rushing yards with 587 entering Week 8.

Colts RB Jonathan Taylor plans to stay the course in Indianapolis despite turbulent week

Taylor’s Stance on Team Changes

Taylor acknowledged the impact of Nelson and Buckner’s departures but stressed the team’s focus on competition. “The fans need something to look at, the fans need something to say ‘Hey, they’re trying,’” he said. “We’re out here, we’re trying to compete and we’re trying to win.” The Colts expect rookie Jalen Farmer to fill Nelson’s left guard position, while fourth-year defensive tackle Adetomiwa Adebawore will take on more responsibility in Buckner’s role. Offensive line coach Tony Sparano Jr. noted the challenge of replacing Nelson, stating, “You tell me who in the league is going to replace Quenton Nelson, man for man? It ain’t happening.”

Colts’ Roster Rebuild and Draft Strategy

The Colts’ moves align with a broader strategy to add draft capital. The team does not own a first-round pick in 2027, as it was traded to the New York Jets in a deal for All-Pro cornerback Sauce Gardner. Despite the upheaval, Taylor remains optimistic about the team’s prospects. “I’m confident we can win now,” he said, questioning whether the franchise was rebuilding after the recent changes. The Colts face a critical test against AFC South-leading Jacksonville (4-2) on Sunday, with Taylor aiming to keep the team focused on the game. “Every time you go on the field, you want to dominate and show you’re the best,” he said.