Stars Moved as Colts Begin Rebuild
The Indianapolis Colts have officially started a major team rebuild. On Tuesday, the franchise traded veteran stars DeForest Buckner and Quenton Nelson to contending teams. The moves signal a clear shift in direction for the organization.
Buckner, a three time Pro Bowl defensive tackle, returns to the San Francisco 49ers. The 49ers originally drafted him before trading him to Indianapolis in 2020. Nelson, an All Pro guard, is heading to the Seattle Seahawks. Both players were in the final year of their contracts, making their future in Indianapolis uncertain.
Frustration Boils Over After Recent Losses
These trades followed the firing of general manager Chris Ballard last week during his 10th season with the team. Assistant general manager Ed Dodds handled Tuesday deals under owner Carlie Irsay-Gordon.
The trades came right after a 2-5 start to the season. The Colts suffered their third consecutive loss against the Minnesota Vikings on Sunday. Buckner did not hide his disappointment after the game. Asked how he felt, Buckner said he was frustrated because the team lost again.
Draft Capital and Salary Cap Space
The franchise has struggled for results in recent years. Indianapolis last won the AFC South in 2014 and last reached the playoffs in 2020. Their last postseason win came back in 2018. Over the past five seasons, the team averaged 7.6 wins per year.
Indianapolis does not have a first round pick in 2027 because of the previous trade for Sauce Gardner with the New York Jets. Getting draft picks back was necessary. Seattle sent a 2027 third round pick and a 2028 fifth round pick for Nelson. San Francisco gave up a 2027 fourth round pick for Buckner.
More Big Names Could Be Next
The front office is expected to look at more potential deals. Running back Jonathan Taylor, nose tackle Grover Stewart, and receiver Josh Downs are drawing interest from other teams.
The Colts are projected to have well north of 60 million dollars in salary cap space next spring. They could clear even more room if they trade Taylor or part ways with struggling quarterback Daniel Jones.
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