Jonathan Taylor, Colts Comment On Contract Extension

Jonathan Taylor and the Indianapolis Colts' leadership made statements following the running back's contract extension with the team.

The Indianapolis Colts activated Jonathan Taylor from the Physically Unable to Perform list on Saturday, paving the way for the running back to make his season debut against the Tennessee Titans on Sunday. However, that wasn't the biggest news of the day involving Taylor.

Moments after removing Taylor from the week's injury report, it was announced that he and the Colts agreed to a three-year contract extension worth $42 million, making him one of the NFL's highest-paid running backs.

The move ended a months-long dispute between Taylor and the team after a contract extension (or even serious discussions about one) failed to materialize over the offseason. Taylor then landed on the Physically Unable to Perform list, which caused him to miss the first four games of the season.

With Taylor now healthy and with contractual clarity and security, both sides will move forward on a positive note.

Here's what Taylor, Colts owner Jim Irsay, general manager Chris Ballard, and head coach Shane Steichen all had to say about the news through a team press release.

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Running Back Jonathan Taylor

“I want to thank Jim Irsay and his family, Chris Ballard, and Coach Steichen for the opportunity to be part of this organization’s future. I greatly appreciate the support of my teammates and Colts fans. I can’t wait to get back on the field and do everything I can to help bring this city the championship it deserves. I’m proud to be an Indianapolis Colt.”

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Owner & CEO Jim Irsay

“Jonathan is a special player and signing him to this extension is important knowing the impact he’ll make as the team develops under Shane Steichen. I have no doubt he’ll continue to create highlight plays and memories for Colts fans as he’s done in his three seasons thus far. Jonathan deserves this deal and I’m happy for him.”

General Manager Chris Ballard

“I’m thrilled we were able to reach an agreement with Jonathan. At the end of August, I spoke about the importance of relationships and being able to move forward. We were able to reach that point. We know what Jonathan means to this team and this city. He is an exceptional playmaker, and he has given a tremendous amount to our organization. This is the result we all wanted.”

Head Coach Shane Steichen

“Part of the reason I took this job was to work with a player like Jonathan Taylor. He adds an explosive element to our offense and his success on the field over the last three seasons is undeniable. I’m excited for the role he’ll play on this team as we continue to build.”

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