INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) — Despite a five-game losing streak, the Indianapolis Colts do not plan to trade quarterback Daniel Jones, according to Tom Pelissero of The Ringer.
Pelissero reported that the Colts informed Jones on Saturday that they would not trade him before Tuesday afternoon’s deadline.
Jones’ name began circulating in trade rumors after the Colts fired general manager Chris Ballard and traded away franchise pillars Quenton Nelson and DeForest Buckner.
Amid the trade speculation, Jones said he believes in the Colts’ direction and defended head coach Shane Steichen following Sunday’s 27-23 loss to the Dallas Cowboys.
“I believe in Shane (Steichen),” Jones said. “I believe in what we’re doing. I love playing for Shane. So, like I said, I hadn’t thought about it much. I’ve been so focused on Dallas and making sure I was ready to go today.”
It was another frustrating outing for Jones, who completed 20 of 34 passes for 180 yards, one touchdown and one interception. Through Week 9, Jones has thrown 10 interceptions with just six touchdown passes.
As the trade deadline approaches, Jones was asked whether the rumors and other recent distractions have affected him or his teammates.
“Yeah, I don’t know,” Jones said. “I think it’s hard to quantify it or say exactly what’s what. But at the end of the day, it’s our job to play and play well. And we haven’t played well enough the last couple weeks. So, that’s on us. And we’ve got to fix that.”
“Like I said, just so much going on here with getting ready for this game and playing well — playing well today — and that’s plenty to think about,” Jones added.
He acknowledged that the Colts have faced plenty of distractions in recent weeks but said the players must focus on what they can control.
“Yeah, I think obviously just a ton to focus on with Dallas and the game today,” Jones said. “So, I think that’s where my focus has been with that, and you see a lot of stuff,” Jones said. “There’s been plenty of distractions the last couple weeks with all the stuff that’s gone on, and it’s unfortunate we’re in that position. But I think as players, your job is to focus as much on what’s in front of you. And playing quarterback, there’s a lot of focusing on getting ready for a game. So, that was my approach.”
The Colts, now 2-7, will know for sure by Tuesday afternoon whether Jones remains with the team.
