NFL8 hours ago1 minute read

Jonathan Taylor Stepping Up as Colts Leader After Trade Deadline

Jonathan Taylor is focusing on leadership for the Indianapolis Colts after the NFL trade deadline passed without moving the star running back.

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Moving past trade rumors

Jonathan Taylor is staying with the Indianapolis Colts. After weeks of trade rumors leading up to Tuesday's deadline, the star running back is ready to move forward with the rest of the season.

Taylor called the trade deadline chatter regularly scheduled programming and noted that it is all water under the bridge now. With eight games remaining on the schedule, the team is turning its attention to Sunday's home matchup against the Miami Dolphins.

Taking on a leadership role

The Colts roster looks very different compared to the start of the year. Wide receiver Alec Pierce suffered a heel reinjury in Week 2, and general manager Chris Ballard was fired last month. Over the last three weeks, the team traded away key players including guard Quenton Nelson, defensive tackle DeForest Buckner, and receivers Josh Downs and Keenan Allen.

Now, Taylor wants to take on a bigger role as a team leader. He said that veterans need to rally the group and set a good example on and off the field.

Adjusting to a new offensive line

Losing Nelson has directly affected Taylor on the field. The three time All Pro guard was a primary blocker on many of Taylor's big runs over the years. Since Nelson was traded, Taylor has averaged 3.3 yards per carry.

Rookie fourth round pick Jalen Farmer has stepped in to replace Nelson. Taylor mentioned he is excited to work with Farmer, who learned a lot from Nelson before the trade. Asked about the franchise's direction, Taylor noted that front office decisions are above his pay grade and that his focus is simply on performing his best every day.

What it means for the next game

Miami Dolphins at Indianapolis Colts (NFL, Sun, 15 Nov): Indianapolis Colts win 59%, Miami Dolphins win 41%; projected score Indianapolis Colts 21, Miami Dolphins 19. Our safest pick: Over 31.5 points.

Indianapolis Colts at Houston Texans (NFL, Fri, 20 Nov): Houston Texans win 78%, Indianapolis Colts win 22%; projected score Houston Texans 27, Indianapolis Colts 18. Our safest pick: Texans to win.