Colts GM says Trent Richardson 'needs to answer the bell'

Colts general manager Ryan Grigson said running back Trent Richardson needs to step up his play and provide more for the team.

Colts general manager Ryan Grigson said running back Trent Richardson needs to step up his play and provide more for the team.

Richardson has rushed for 34 yards on 14 attempts during the preseason, which continues on Saturday with a matchup against the New Orleans Saints and concludes the following Thursday against the Cincinnati Bengals. The Colts are the defending AFC South champions.

More: All-Prove It Team: Players under pressure to step up in 2014

“Trent, he needs to answer the bell and do his job to the best of his ability,” Grigson said to ESPN.com. “We’re all accountable here.” 

Fantasy football 2014 five-minute guide: One sheet to rule them all

Richardson, the Cleveland Browns' 2012 first-round draft pick, was traded to Indianapolis in September 2013 for a first-round pick in this year’s NFL draft. He has said that he wants to gain more than 1,000 yards this season.

Richardson ran for 458 yards and averaged 2.9 yards per carry last season, failing to match his rookie output of 950 yards. He says the team’s offense is a work in progress.

"I’m just proud to be able to be where we’re at right now. I know there’s still a lot to come and still a lot to work on,” Richardson said.

​- Scooby Axson