Colts loss leaves Taylor, Jones facing trade deadline
Jonathan Taylor rushed for 46 yards in a 27-23 defeat that may mark his final home game before the NFL trade deadline on Tuesday.
By Renata Mehta ·
Indianapolis Colts running back Jonathan Taylor will likely say goodbye to Lucas Oil Stadium on Tuesday. The NFL trade deadline arrives that day, and the team has signaled it may move Taylor, quarterback Daniel Jones, or both.
The 2021 rushing champion played in his final home game Sunday before the deadline. The Colts lost 27-23 to the Dallas Cowboys, marking their fifth consecutive defeat. The defeat leaves the team with a 2-7 record.
During warmups, stadium screens displayed a montage of Taylor's career highlights. While not an official send-off, the tribute reflected the speculation surrounding his status. Taylor acknowledged the uncertainty in his role.
“I think you play every game like it’s your last,” Taylor said. “At the end of the day, this has been a spot where I’ve grown up.. I’m very grateful for the city of Indianapolis.”
Taylor rushed 13 times for 46 yards. He also caught five passes for 18 yards. The franchise career leader in touchdown runs did not score and fumbled in the fourth quarter, costing Indianapolis a scoring opportunity.
Quarterback Daniel Jones also faces potential movement. He started the 2025 season with strong play but has struggled with turnovers recently. In Sunday's game, he completed 20 of 34 passes for 180 yards with two touchdowns and one interception.
That interception came from safety Caleb Downs with 35 seconds remaining. The pick sealed the win for Dallas after the Colts overcame a 10-point deficit in the second half.
Coach Shane Steichen, whose own position is uncertain, stated he is not speculating on trades. “He’s on our football team,” Steichen said regarding Taylor. The Colts host the Miami Dolphins next week, a game Taylor may not play for Indianapolis.
Receiver Josh Downs, who played against his brother Caleb, requested a trade last week. He expressed openness to a move. Taylor and Jones have not formally requested trades but accepted that the decision is now out of their hands.
“The hay is in the barn. We just play the waiting game now,” Taylor said.
