Jonathan Taylor Says He Has Not Requested Colts Trade

Indianapolis Colts running back Jonathan Taylor said Thursday he has not requested a trade and remains proud to play for the team, as speculation grows over his future before the NFL trade deadline. Taylor told reporters that he had not heard anything about a possible move and could not control the team’s decision. He said he hoped circumstances would not lead to a departure, while acknowledging that might happen. He also said his immediate focus was the Colts’ divisional game against the Jacksonville Jaguars and described trade talk as a potential distraction. A day earlier, coach Shane Steichen said Taylor had not asked the organization to trade him. The statements establish that neither Taylor nor his coach has reported a trade request; they do not settle whether Indianapolis might decide to move him. The question has drawn attention after the Colts traded guard Quenton Nelson to the Seattle Seahawks and defensive tackle DeForest Buckner to the San Francisco 49ers on Tuesday. The team has also fired general manager Chris Ballard, and its decisions have prompted speculation about whether Taylor could be the next prominent player dealt. The Colts have not announced a decision...