Colts Continue Sell-Off Ahead of Week 8 Clash with Jaguars

The Indianapolis Colts have become the first NFL team to actively sell off players this season, trading away multiple key personnel leading up to their Week 8 matchup against the Jacksonville Jaguars. This roster upheaval has positioned the Colts as significant underdogs in the upcoming game.

Following the departure of their general manager, the Colts have seen both offensive and defensive linemen traded, with reports suggesting that star running back Jonathan Taylor and wide receiver Josh Downs may also be on the move before the game. Even if trades are not finalized, the uncertainty and potential lack of motivation among players are expected to impact their performance.

The Jaguars, entering Week 8, are recognized as one of the NFL's top teams, particularly in their ability to neutralize the Colts' primary offensive strength: the run game. Jacksonville boasts the league's best rushing defense, allowing an average of only 72.2 rushing yards per game. This presents a significant challenge for the Colts, who heavily rely on their rushing attack, especially with quarterback Daniel Jones still recovering from a torn Achilles and reportedly not performing at his previous level.

Limiting the effectiveness of Taylor, if he plays, would place greater pressure on the Colts' passing game, which has been noted for a lack of dynamic playmakers. The recent trade of guard Quenton Nelson further complicates the offensive line situation, as the team has had minimal time to adjust to new configurations.

On the defensive side for Jacksonville, the departure of DeForest Buckner from the defensive line could potentially ease the task for Jaguars quarterback Trevor Lawrence and the offense. The Jaguars, having had a bye week to prepare, are anticipated to exploit a Colts defense that has struggled, particularly against the run. The emergence of running back Bhayshul Tuten for Jacksonville also adds another dimension to their offensive capabilities.

Historically, the Jaguars have demonstrated strong performance in their home games in Florida, winning their two home contests by an average of 26.5 points this season, suggesting that the large spread in the upcoming game may not be prohibitive.

Indianapolis Colts' Daniel Jones (17) looks to pass against the Minnesota Vikings in the first quarter of an NFL football game at U.S. Bank Stadium in Minneapolis, Sunday, Oct. 25, 2026.

Bhayshul Tuten of the Jaguars celebrates after scoring a touchdown during the NFL London Series match against the Houston Texans.