The Broncos’ connection to Jonathan Taylor has been one of the loudest rumors circling the league, but Sean Payton isn’t biting. Denver has been tied heavily to the Indianapolis Colts running back, yet the coach waved it off when asked about it, according to Sam Jane of the Denver Post.
Payton called the talk “internet gossip,” a response that stood out because it was so restrained compared with his usual style.
“You’re asking me a question about gossip. [GM] George (Paton) and I will spend time looking at the team and anywhere we can improve it, but I’m not going to answer questions about internet gossip,” Payton said.
That answer hasn’t done much to quiet the speculation. The Broncos fan base and local media have been all over the possibility of Taylor landing in Denver, and the reporting around the league has only fueled the buzz. Taylor is expected by many to be moved before next week’s deadline, even if Payton isn’t willing to say that out loud.
The Colts’ situation has only added to the noise. Indianapolis has been described as being in a fire sale, and Taylor is viewed as available, even if that still stops short of a confirmed fact. The Colts also just took a 42-7 beating from the Jacksonville Jaguars, a loss that only sharpened the focus on what comes next.
Taylor said he hasn’t heard anything, though that doesn’t mean much behind the scenes. His agent almost certainly has, and updates are likely moving fast even if the player isn’t saying so publicly.
For now, one thing that could cool the chatter is the play of rookie running back Jonah Coleman. He’s been giving the Broncos steady production and splash plays, which may make the team a little less desperate to chase another back right away.
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Broncos Face A Trade Deadline Choice That Could Shape The AFC Race
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Among the names being discussed, the Broncos are at least doing their homework on a few prominent options, including Jonathan Taylor and Derrick Henry, while also exploring the tight end market. The appeal is obvious: a move now could give Denver a better chance to keep pace in a crowded conference, but the cost and the fit have to line up, and there is still no sign of a deal being finalized. [Read more 🡒]