What might we expect from the Indianapolis Colts’ 2023 season? For the most part, it was filled with good surprises resulting from terrible circumstances. Indy appeared to have landed a draft steal with Anthony Richardson. Richardson, widely regarded as a “raw” quarterback prospect, performed admirably in the few games he appeared in last season. Unfortunately, he suffered a season-ending shoulder injury. Regardless, Indianapolis had a great season, highlighted by the development of Michael Pittman Jr. and Jonathan Taylor’s decision to stay with the organization.
While it’s easy to see this season as a success for Indianapolis, that doesn’t mean they can be satisfied with what they have. The Colts were successful last season despite some obvious deficiencies on their roster. Their defence was poor at times, despite a record-breaking performance throughout the year. Their offence might still use a few modifications, especially given their depth.
With many important stars potentially available on the trade market, the team would do well to evaluate these players. What players should the Colts trade for during the 2024 NFL offseason?
It’s odd to think that a team that set a franchise record for sacks last season would need help on the edge. However, it is exactly what we are suggesting here. Last season, the Colts recorded 51 sacks, a team record and the sixth-most in the league. However, they rank at the bottom in terms of pressures generated, according to Pro-Football-Reference. What’s going on?
Perhaps there is a glaring lack of a true headliner on the defensive line. Every team needs that one pass rusher to turn defences on their heads, just as a wide receiver room requires an excellent player to draw attention. Think of T.J Watt for the Steelers, Micah Parsons for the Cowboys, and Nick Bosa for the 49ers. Having a terrific EDGE rusher opens up the rest of the defence. This Colts defence, which had an excellent season by the metrics, has the potential to go much further.
Kwiti Paye is a good player (particularly in the run game), but he’s going to enter Year 5 and hasn’t been as dominant in pass defence. DeForest Buckner takes up a lot of space in the inside, but dealing him would be extremely beneficial for the Colts. If this team can achieve those results without a legitimate EDGE threat, imagine how much better they would be with one.
The Colts would be far better served using the draft to address their wide receiver and safety needs. Given that, they would be wise to target another Bosa, Joey Bosa of the Chargers. Bosa isn’t quite as good as his younger brother due to injury, but he’s still a game changer who must be planned for. Adding Bosa to their already solid defensive lead will take Indy to the next level.
AJ Brown, Eagles WR
Look, we’re discussing the best guys the Colts could pursue. That doesn’t mean it has to be entirely realistic, right?
Still, this trade isn’t as outlandish as one might imagine. After a terribly poor season, there are signs of dissension among the Eagles. AJ Brown has forced his way out of one team before. While the situation is different now, the Colts would be wise to take advantage of this opportunity by enquiring about the former Titans wide receiver.
Why would the Colts consider trading for a talent like AJ Brown? Well, it all comes down to the exact reason the Eagles traded for Brown in the first place. With Anthony Richardson emerging as a must-watch quarterback, providing the rookie with an excellent weapon becomes critical. We’ve seen plenty of examples of teams signing a well-known wide receiver to pair with their rising star quarterback.
Last season, Michael Pittman Jr. shown that he has what it takes to be a game changer, putting up great numbers even without Richardson. Josh Downs had the best rookie wide receiver season in Colts history. Alec Pierce was reliable in stretches. However, none of them can compare to Brown. At his best, Brown is a top-5 wide receiver in the NFL.
If the Colts trade for Brown, they may be hesitant to spend a lot of money on a wide receiver. MPJ is also due for a new deal, and his outstanding performance last season means he will command a hefty price. Still, the greatest time to splurge on a wide receiver is while your quarterback is still on his rookie contract. Indianapolis would’ve
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