Colts sit at 2-7 as Taylor faces trade deadline

The Indianapolis Colts face a critical decision point this Tuesday as the NFL trade deadline approaches. The team sits at 2-7 after suffering a 27-23 loss to the Dallas Cowboys on Sunday. This defeat marks their fifth consecutive game without a win.

Running back Jonathan Taylor is the central figure in current speculation regarding player movement. Taylor has spent six and a half seasons in Indianapolis. He described the city as the place where he matured after college and started his family. "I’m very grateful for the city of Indianapolis," Taylor said following the game.

The Colts attempted a late comeback against Dallas but fell short. Indianapolis trailed by 10 points in the second half before taking a 23-20 lead with 1:37 remaining. Dallas responded with a one-yard touchdown run by Javonte Williams. An interception on the final possession sealed the victory for the Cowboys.

Taylor carried the ball 13 times for 46 yards and caught five passes for 18 yards. He did not add to his franchise record of 77 rushing touchdowns. A fourth-quarter fumble also cost the Colts a potential scoring opportunity. The team has already traded several players to secure draft picks and create salary cap room for 2027.

Head coach Shane Steichen declined to discuss a specific deal involving Taylor. He noted that he appreciates Taylor's focus on the game despite the uncertainty surrounding his status. "He’s on our football team," Steichen said.

Quarterback Daniel Jones is also a potential trade candidate. He completed 20 of 34 passes for 180 yards and two touchdowns against Dallas. His one interception, caught by Caleb Downs with 35 seconds left, secured the final score. Jones said he has focused on playing rather than thinking about being traded.

Receiver Josh Downs requested a trade last week. He caught the ball three times for 24 yards against his brother Caleb. Taylor indicated he would like to stay with the only franchise he has played for but acknowledged the decision is not his to make. "We just play the waiting game now," Taylor said. The Colts host Miami next week.