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Proposed trade for Stefon Diggs to Colts


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6 minutes ago, BProland85 said:

This is a terrific draft for WRs. No thanks. Let’s keep our draft picks and keep building up this young team. 

If I’m not mistaken we are already the youngest team in the league or very close.  This team could use some veteran leadership and experience to help the young players already on the team.  Adding those kind of players will help the team more than continually throwing players learning on the fly out there.  The window just opened in 2024.  It won’t be open long.  I think we need to add some experience and leadership to take the next step.  If that means trading a pick for a player then that’s what we need to do.

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3 hours ago, Superman said:

 

I really like Aiyuk and have had my eye on him. I'm just not 100% sure he's a dynamic #1 WR. Really good production on a team with Deebo, CMC, Kittle... is he putting up 1,400 yards anywhere else though? He's not a burner, not super explosive as a player, really good route runner, great hands, tough, quick, but not a downfield guy. Again, I really like him, he'd easily be our best WR, a serious upgrade to our WR corps. I just wonder if we need a more dynamic player.

 

It's interesting. One could argue that being surrounded by premium weapons has allowed him to thrive. But one might also argue that the weapons around him has limited his opportunity to show that he is an alpha WR1.

 

But he doesn't elite speed. I think he's been pretty dynamic with the ball, but everybody in SF seems to be able to do that. His 17.9 ypc, might be an outlier, but if he settles somewhere in-between that and the previous two seasons, I think he could be a guy that puts up 1,400 yds with more target volume.

 

And what he does do is run great routes and catch the ball. Plus, he's got those long arms that make him more like a 6'2'' or 6'3'' WR than a 6'0'' guy.

 

But am biased cause I have wanted him since he was at ASU. Was hoping he would be there when the Colts picked MPJ. So pairing them up, while costly, would be fun.

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54 minutes ago, shasta519 said:

 

It's interesting. One could argue that being surrounded by premium weapons has allowed him to thrive. But one might also argue that the weapons around him has limited his opportunity to show that he is an alpha WR1.

 

But he doesn't elite speed. I think he's been pretty dynamic with the ball, but everybody in SF seems to be able to do that. His 17.9 ypc, might be an outlier, but if he settles somewhere in-between that and the previous two seasons, I think he could be a guy that puts up 1,400 yds with more target volume.

 

And what he does do is run great routes and catch the ball. Plus, he's got those long arms that make him more like a 6'2'' or 6'3'' WR than a 6'0'' guy.

 

But am biased cause I have wanted him since he was at ASU. Was hoping he would be there when the Colts picked MPJ. So pairing them up, while costly, would be fun.

 

The Niners seem to get their ball carriers open with space to run better than every other team. And I think his increased production this year is partly due to having a QB who's locked in. It's totally out of nowhere, but Brock Purdy is the best QB to run Shanahan's offense since MVP Matt Ryan. 


So between Shanahan's system and Purdy's efficiency, I think it's unlikely that there's really anything holding back Aiyuk's production. He's probably in the best situation he'll ever be in.

 

I didn't realize he had outlier arm length, but that makes sense. He seems bigger than 6'0", IMO. 

 

Pairing him with MPJ would be interesting. But when I think about the ideal partner for MPJ, I think of a guy who can tilt the field with his speed. If all things were equal, I wouldn't mind swapping MPJ for Aiyuk, and reconfiguring the rest of the WR room around Aiyuk, but that seems unlikely for a lot of reasons.

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1 hour ago, richard pallo said:

If I’m not mistaken we are already the youngest team in the league or very close.  This team could use some veteran leadership and experience to help the young players already on the team.  Adding those kind of players will help the team more than continually throwing players learning on the fly out there.  The window just opened in 2024.  It won’t be open long.  I think we need to add some experience and leadership to take the next step.  If that means trading a pick for a player then that’s what we need to do.


I tend to agree. I’m hopeful Downs continues to improve his game and strengthens the room. I’m not entirely out on Pierce yet. And I think we all know Pittman is good but has limitations and is questionable as our wr1. 
 

I would argue (on the same point as your post) that our two biggest needs are receiver and safety, and finding a veteran pro-bowl talent at both could take this team to the next level in itself. I’d be willing to run it back with AR under center and work to continue improving the current roster developmentally, while bringing some support via FA/draft, if those two pieces could be met early this offseason. To me, it might be the best route. Sign free agent safety, trade for a veteran receiver. Everything else falls in place. 

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2 hours ago, ColtStrong2013 said:


I tend to agree. I’m hopeful Downs continues to improve his game and strengthens the room. I’m not entirely out on Pierce yet. And I think we all know Pittman is good but has limitations and is questionable as our wr1. 
 

I would argue (on the same point as your post) that our two biggest needs are receiver and safety, and finding a veteran pro-bowl talent at both could take this team to the next level in itself. I’d be willing to run it back with AR under center and work to continue improving the current roster developmentally, while bringing some support via FA/draft, if those two pieces could be met early this offseason. To me, it might be the best route. Sign free agent safety, trade for a veteran receiver. Everything else falls in place. 

Absolutely agree 100%.   WR and safety are our biggest needs.

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3 hours ago, richard pallo said:

If I’m not mistaken we are already the youngest team in the league or very close.  This team could use some veteran leadership and experience to help the young players already on the team.  Adding those kind of players will help the team more than continually throwing players learning on the fly out there.  The window just opened in 2024.  It won’t be open long.  I think we need to add some experience and leadership to take the next step.  If that means trading a pick for a player then that’s what we need to do.

Perhaps but Diggs isn’t the same player he was and his salary doesn’t match up. Especially for a 1st. 

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On 2/8/2024 at 8:10 AM, NFLfan said:

 

I wholeheartedly agree with you. He is an emotional player that wants to win. He hates to lose. Fans seem to prefer players who are docile, quiet and don't show emotion.

 

As others have said, I too believe that the Colts should not trade for Diggs but not because of the "diva" reasons given. I always seem to agree with @stitches and I do once again. If the Colts are going to trade a #1 pick for a WR, it should be for a young WR like JJ, Waddle, Lamb and the like. What about a 2nd round pick for Garrett Wilson? I like Wilson a lot.

 

Diggs would work better on a more veteran team that is winning like the CChiefs

I agree.  I like Diggs.  I dont think he's right for the Colts though.  He's getting a bit long in the tooth.

 

He wants to win badly and calls out the team mates for their lackadaisical effort.

 

The Bills loss to the Bengals last playoffs was a great example.  The bills didn't even show up for that game. 

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2 hours ago, PRnum1 said:

I agree.  I like Diggs.  I dont think he's right for the Colts though.  He's getting a bit long in the tooth.

 

He wants to win badly and calls out the team mates for their lackadaisical effort.

 

The Bills loss to the Bengals last playoffs was a great example.  The bills didn't even show up for that game. 

 

I agree. The Colts need a young WR.

 

Ballard is too frugal. He is not giving up premium draft picks for a veteran WR. He can draft a very good WR in the first round this year.

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2 hours ago, NFLfan said:

 

I agree. The Colts need a young WR.

 

Ballard is too frugal. He is not giving up premium draft picks for a veteran WR. He can draft a very good WR in the first round this year.

 

42 minutes ago, Bbswatching said:

Instead of going after Diggs or brown.  Just resign Pittman.  Less money.  And isn't a cancer to the locker room.  Also hes younger.  Draft another wr at 15.  And pair him with Pitt and Downs.  


This is assuming Ballard feels he can risk missing on another receiver. Pittman and Downs were good picks, but no one else has panned out. Does he feel he has the time/leash to miss or pick someone that takes time to develop into what they need? If not, then the idea of swinging big for a vet receiver (preferably a younger one than Diggs) isn’t such a wild concept. It’s not  unprecedented with qbs on rookie deals. 

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11 minutes ago, ColtStrong2013 said:

 


This is assuming Ballard feels he can risk missing on another receiver. Pittman and Downs were good picks, but no one else has panned out. Does he feel he has the time/leash to miss or pick someone that takes time to develop into what they need? If not, then the idea of swinging big for a vet receiver (preferably a younger one than Diggs) isn’t such a wild concept. It’s not  unprecedented with qbs on rookie deals. 

 

Who would you like to trade for?

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32 minutes ago, NFLfan said:

 

Who would you like to trade for?


Jefferson. Whatever it takes, imo. Especially if I were Ballard. Break the stigma that is associated with you. Realize you have the rookie qb deal, and have been prudent. Highlight your strength in drafting, which is mid to late rounds by forgoing the picks at the top for a couple years, and go big. It would be signaling that they truly believe in Anthony Richardson and the makeup of the offense. They could have a dramatically altered roster by the time April even rolled around if he felt he had one shot at being aggressive. Of course Irsay would have to sign off, but I can’t imagine Ballard couldn’t pitch it. It’s just a matter of if he buys it, which is probably unlikely… But I wouldn’t take many chances of not taking some risk if I were him. 
 

AR, JT, JJ, Downs, Pierce- a strong o-line that took a big step forward 

 

it’s a better offense than we’ve had in a long time… I would hate to sit back and watch Houston continue being the aggressive ones.

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13 hours ago, ColtStrong2013 said:


Jefferson. Whatever it takes, imo. Especially if I were Ballard. Break the stigma that is associated with you. Realize you have the rookie qb deal, and have been prudent. Highlight your strength in drafting, which is mid to late rounds by forgoing the picks at the top for a couple years, and go big. It would be signaling that they truly believe in Anthony Richardson and the makeup of the offense. They could have a dramatically altered roster by the time April even rolled around if he felt he had one shot at being aggressive. Of course Irsay would have to sign off, but I can’t imagine Ballard couldn’t pitch it. It’s just a matter of if he buys it, which is probably unlikely… But I wouldn’t take many chances of not taking some risk if I were him. 
 

AR, JT, JJ, Downs, Pierce- a strong o-line that took a big step forward 

 

it’s a better offense than we’ve had in a long time… I would hate to sit back and watch Houston continue being the aggressive ones.

Houston was able to be aggressive because the browns made a terrible trade for watson

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21 minutes ago, jvan1973 said:

Houston was able to be aggressive because the browns made a terrible trade for watson


Yeah, draft position matters when trading up. I would argue they were able to be aggressive because they got their qb as well. And now that they know what they have at qb, they will certainly be very aggressive. 
 

Which is my point. I’m not sure we can sit and watch the new division king be aggressive without looking to match that aggressiveness. It’s a window with a rookie contract. Ballard’s made that comment of the flexibility it gives for you to be more aggressive. So he’s set the stage. I’m a Ballard fan. But if he doesn’t follow through with that statement, and continues to stay the course, especially while Houston elevates, then I will quickly jump off board. I expect him to be aggressive this offseason. Likely not to the level of trading for Justin Jefferson. I can see resigning Pittman and drafting a receiver being the path, and wouldn’t necessarily be upset about it, so long as he was aggressive in other areas of the roster. 

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5 hours ago, sb41champs said:

Chris Ballard is too smart to make that kind of move - both for the team roster - AND - for the salary cap!!


You think that an upgrade at wr1 for maybe $6-8 million more is a bad move for the roster and salary cap? If you are talking about Diggs- then it would be very doable, and possible even with signing Pittman. The Bills would be on the hook for $31 million of dead cap space. We wouldn’t necessarily be tied to Diggs except for year to year, but have his rights. 
 

The character is one thing- but I can’t imagine this locker room wouldn’t welcome a top receiver in the league to elevate the offense at a clear weak spot. 
 

If you are talking about Justin Jefferson, then it’s the same concept, except for more money, meaning pittman for sure walks. We would have arguably the best receiver in the league and locked down longterm at the age of 25 years old. I don’t know what some might think of that, but I wouldn’t care what we sent pick wise to have AR, JT, Jefferson and Downs on offense for the next 4-7 years or more. 

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On 2/8/2024 at 9:58 PM, Superman said:

 

This stuff about Diggs isn't made up, it's not rumors and false news. Maybe it's been overblown, maybe blame is being misplaced, I don't know. But it's not just a figment of anyone's imagination.

 

Diggs has displayed some diva-like behavior. He was conspicuously absent from the Bills offseason program, and it wasn't contract related. Josh Allen and Sean McDermott both acknowledged that there was some kind of problem between Diggs and Allen, they were concerned about it, and it got squashed at some point before the 2023 season started. But then he started showing signs of being upset again.

 

And to NCF's point about him being more concerned with his own production than the team's results, Diggs was more productive in the first half of the 2023 season, even though the Bills were losing games. Then they made some coaching changes on the offensive side, Diggs production went down, but they started winning more games and made the playoffs. 

 

This is what Diggs said last week:

 

My read on that is 'I had to get used to not getting the ball as much.' Which is an interesting thing to say when the team was winning in the second half of the season. And then he buttons it up by casting doubt on either the team's future, or his future with the team, not sure. 

 

So if someone says Diggs has some diva to him, it's not made up. And if you want to take a 30 year old WR whose role is being adjusted on his team and will probably continue to diminish, and put him with a young QB who has a long way to go in the NFL, I think you should expect some discontent from him.

 

https://www.sportingnews.com/us/nfl/news/stefon-diggs-josh-allen-drama-buffalo-bills-minicamp/fd73bae3bf5c026ade699f31

You can't read those quotes from Diggs and come out with conclusion that he displays Diva-like behavior.. seriously. 

 

he has given a very humble quote on how last season went on and how he's a great off-season ahead of him and how he's going to put in work to be great for the team.

 

What do you expect him to say that wouldn't be misconstrued as Diva-like behavior? 

 

As I said and as you said there were lot of rumors on Diggs having some problem with Allen, but there's ZERO concrete evidence for that. At the end of 2022 season, Allen described what was going on and it perfectly described how Diggs is emotional and how it can be assumed differently by others. GM Brandon Beane as well described the same at the end of 2022 season, which I described. If I find that article (which I've shared in this forum a year ago in similar discussion before), I'll share it again but I don't think I'll get time to do so now. 

 

So, for a casual observer from outside, Diggs would be viewed as Diva. But, for those who have followed him much of his career, I can perfectly see why someone else could be believed to think so, and how some of his actions can be hated and how Diggs won't be able to change how he's and how this debate will go on for all his career. 

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On 2/8/2024 at 9:48 PM, NewColtsFan said:


Apparently you didn’t follow Diggs much in Buffalo.   If you had, you wouldn’t have written what you did.   
 

But thanks anyway. 

Give a concrete example of what happened and what he did in Buffalo.

 

He skipped some practice sessions during some weeks in 2022 season, and he was apparently not happy with the offense - which their head coach did half way into 2023 season and fired his OC.

 

You may call that action as Diva-like, but in the grand scheme of how well his career has gone in Buffalo since they traded for him until middle of 2023 season, and even with last 10 disappointing games, he's been a wonderful teammate and performer on the field for the Bills. 

 

But all you have is - he did that, nobody knows why he did something, but you'd like to call that as Diva.

 

I asked you for a concrete evidence, and you're saying I didn't follow him in Buffalo without even caring to provide any information?

 

Goes to show how positivity and correcting others' faults only applies to favorable situations. 

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21 minutes ago, VikingsFanInChennai said:

Give a concrete example of what happened and what he did in Buffalo.

 

He skipped some practice sessions during some weeks in 2022 season, and he was apparently not happy with the offense - which their head coach did half way into 2023 season and fired his OC.

 

You may call that action as Diva-like, but in the grand scheme of how well his career has gone in Buffalo since they traded for him until middle of 2023 season, and even with last 10 disappointing games, he's been a wonderful teammate and performer on the field for the Bills. 

 

But all you have is - he did that, nobody knows why he did something, but you'd like to call that as Diva.

 

I asked you for a concrete evidence, and you're saying I didn't follow him in Buffalo without even caring to provide any information?

 

Goes to show how positivity and correcting others' faults only applies to favorable situations. 


Why are you even asking me this?   Have you not read the thread?   Have you not read Superman’s comment?   Have you not read my second response to your post?   I thought my first post to you was too short.  So I wrote you a second post which addressed all your issues.   
 

Read all that, and that should answer all your questions.    

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You want to get a bonafide potential superstar WR for AR? Trade up to 3 and get Marv Jr. I know, it would be a ridiculous haul to give up, but we've seen teams make massive trades to get up in the draft to get their guy. Falcons for Julio. Chiefs for Mahomes. It's a pipe dream, but I rather go in that direction then give up the price the Bills would want for Diggs.

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How about DK Metcalf? Of all the names listed, I’m not sure any of them could contribute at a high level longer than Metcalf. Metcalf has the body type and  physique to be a #1 WR unto his mid 30’s. I’m not sure if Seattle’s willing to part ways with him or what their plans are moving on from Pete Carrol’s retirement, but a franchise restructuring could be a real possibility and a fire sale could mean all players are available whether discounted or to the highest bidder. 

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On 2/10/2024 at 10:14 PM, VikingsFanInChennai said:

You can't read those quotes from Diggs and come out with conclusion that he displays Diva-like behavior.. seriously. 

 

he has given a very humble quote on how last season went on and how he's a great off-season ahead of him and how he's going to put in work to be great for the team.

 

What do you expect him to say that wouldn't be misconstrued as Diva-like behavior? 

 

As I said and as you said there were lot of rumors on Diggs having some problem with Allen, but there's ZERO concrete evidence for that. At the end of 2022 season, Allen described what was going on and it perfectly described how Diggs is emotional and how it can be assumed differently by others. GM Brandon Beane as well described the same at the end of 2022 season, which I described. If I find that article (which I've shared in this forum a year ago in similar discussion before), I'll share it again but I don't think I'll get time to do so now. 

 

So, for a casual observer from outside, Diggs would be viewed as Diva. But, for those who have followed him much of his career, I can perfectly see why someone else could be believed to think so, and how some of his actions can be hated and how Diggs won't be able to change how he's and how this debate will go on for all his career. 

 

Allen and McDermott acknowledged there was a problem. McDermott said he was very concerned about it.

 

It's okay if different people view this differently. It can be up for interpretation, and what one person sees as diva-like, another person might find defensible. I'm just saying it's not all made up nonsense. There's something there, and Diggs is at least partly responsible for it.

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On 2/10/2024 at 9:10 PM, ColtStrong2013 said:


You think that an upgrade at wr1 for maybe $6-8 million more is a bad move for the roster and salary cap? If you are talking about Diggs- then it would be very doable, and possible even with signing Pittman. The Bills would be on the hook for $31 million of dead cap space. We wouldn’t necessarily be tied to Diggs except for year to year, but have his rights. 
 

The character is one thing- but I can’t imagine this locker room wouldn’t welcome a top receiver in the league to elevate the offense at a clear weak spot. 
 

If you are talking about Justin Jefferson, then it’s the same concept, except for more money, meaning pittman for sure walks. We would have arguably the best receiver in the league and locked down longterm at the age of 25 years old. I don’t know what some might think of that, but I wouldn’t care what we sent pick wise to have AR, JT, Jefferson and Downs on offense for the next 4-7 years or more. 

We all have our individual opinions - and - we'll just have to agree to disagree on this one.

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3 minutes ago, sb41champs said:

We all have our individual opinions - and - we'll just have to agree to disagree on this one.

You keep posting something from blue shoe?  It’s just showing up as large empty boxes.  No idea what’s not working.

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On 2/9/2024 at 9:33 PM, ColtStrong2013 said:

Jefferson. Whatever it takes, imo. Especially if I were Ballard

 

What do you think of this? Someone proposed it on the Vikings site that I follow:

 

Quote

Trade Partner: Colts

Sent: Justin Jefferson

Received: (2024) Pick 15, Pick 82,

2025 2nd, 2025 4th,

2026 5th,

WR Alec Pierce

 

I don't like the proposed package for JJ. I would rather get this year's and next year's first round picks. Maybe something like this:

Colts get JJ

Vikings received Colts'

2024 First and third round picks

2025 First and 2nd round picks

 

I think JJ would be a perfect WR for Richardson.

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1 hour ago, NFLfan said:

 

What do you think of this? Someone proposed it on the Vikings site that I follow:

 

 

I don't like the proposed package for JJ. I would rather get this year's and next year's first round picks. Maybe something like this:

Colts get JJ

Vikings received Colts'

2024 First and third round picks

2025 First and 2nd round picks

 

I think JJ would be a perfect WR for Richardson.

I would prefer the proposed trade on the Vikings site.  I like the idea of giving them Pierce in the trade.  I would think they would like getting a receiver included and they would get a lot of picks which would be tempting.

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36 minutes ago, richard pallo said:

I would prefer the proposed trade on the Vikings site.  I like the idea of giving them Pierce in the trade.  I would think they would like getting a receiver included and they would get a lot of picks which would be tempting.


From the Colts perspective,  anyone would prefer the package from the Vikings website.   It’s insultingly low.   Minnesota would slam the phone down, it’s not even worth countering.   
 

Honestly, I don’t see the Vikings trading JJ at this point in his career, he’s a foundational piece,  and certainly not for so little. 

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1 hour ago, richard pallo said:

I would prefer the proposed trade on the Vikings site.  I like the idea of giving them Pierce in the trade.  I would think they would like getting a receiver included and they would get a lot of picks which would be tempting.

 

From a Colts can perspective, the one proposed on the site is more favorable. I would want more.

 

I checked out what we got for Diggs. It was less than what is proposed for JJ. This is what we got for Diggs:

 

Quote

In return, Minnesota earned the No. 22 overall pick of the 2020 NFL Draft, a fifth-rounder in that same class, a sixth-rounder, and a 2021 fourth-round selection. 

 

I would still like two #1s for JJ.

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    • The Colts have a long list of upcoming 2025 Free Agents:   Colts 2025 Free Agents: OC Ryan Kelly SS Julian Blackmon TE Mo Alie-Cox DT Taven Bryan RG Will Fries 8m SLB Ronnie Harrison 2.4m Edge Dayo Odeyingbo 6m WLB EJ Speed TE Kylen Granson 5m QB Joe Flacco TE Eric Tomlinson WR Ashton Dulin OC Danny Pinter Edge Genard Avery CB Dallis Flowers – RFA Round 1 tender 6.945m / Round 2 tender 4.978m CB Darrell Baker Jr. RFA LG Wesley French RFA QB Sam Ehlinger RB Trey Sermon RG Jack Anderson WR Juwann Winfree WR Tyrie Cleveland WR DJ Montgomery RFA MLB Segun Olubi ERFA 960k / worth 1.4m CB Chris Lammons LG Arlington Hambright RFA – cut RT Lewis Kidd ERFA 960k LB Grant Stuard – cut RB Tyler Goodson ERFA 960k LG Josh Sills RFA – cut LB/Edge Isaiah Land ERFA – 960k resign SLB Cameron McGrone ERFA – cut DB Trevor Denbow ERFA – 960k resign WR Ethan Fernea ERFA -960k? CB Marcel Dabo ERFA – 840k? WLB Austin Ajake ERFA – 840k? FS Kendell Brooks ERFA – 840k? SLB Liam Anderson ERFA – 840k? WR Zavier Scott ERFA – 840k? TE Jordan Murray ERFA – 840k? WR Michael Tutsie ERFA – 840k?   Of the above really like to see the Colts resign Ronnie Harrison, Dayo Odeyingbo, Kylen Granson, Dallis Flowers, and Segun Olubi.  In order to free up cap space it wouldn't shock me to see Braden Smith traded.  Not ideal but only way at this point in time to see freeing up available cap space.  Would love to add OC Connor Williams who is still a free agent but suffered an ACL injury late in 2023.  Before his injury Williams ranked as the 3rd best OL in 2023 in zone-heavy scheme.  Recoding a league best 92.4 run-blocking grade on zone concepts and equally impressive in pass protection allowing just six pressures on 280 pass sets.    No doubt the Colts love speed on their offense.  Jonathan Taylor was recently listed as one of the fastest players in the NFL last season.  Then the Colts drafted Anthony Gould who in 2023 Week 3 hit a top speed of 21.6 mph.  As UDFAs the Colts then brought in NC State Trent Pennix who in Week 6 clocked the fastest time by a TE at 20.6 MPH but also is a capable RB.  Colts also added QB Jason Bean (Kansas) who in Week 9 clocked an impressive 22.4 mph T5 fastest player in 2023.   Mock Draft   Round 1 WLB Harold Perkins Jr. (LSU) - As a true freshman led all LBs in Power 5 with a 91.0 pass-rush grade and second among all LBs in the country with 18 QB knockdowns (sacks/hits) and tied for second in the country with 4 *.  In 2023 as a true off-ball LB he struggled as a run defender but flashed in coverage, 81.1 coverage grade.  At the end of 2023 now recorded 27 TFLs and 13 sacks with 7 forced fumbles.  Made 2022 college football all-America Freshman Team.  In 2022 his 87.6 pass-rush grade by true freshman is 3rd best since the 2014 era, behind (Rueben Bain Jr-2023 and Myles Garrett-2014).  2022 PFF TOW 11 honors.  Like JOK, Perkins has a chance to win the Butkus Award.  Both JOK and Perkins have similar builds and ran a 4.42s-forty.  Do expect Perkins’ stats to dip if he does move to MLB and probably drop him to Round 2 grades much like Edgerrin Cooper in 2024 Draft Class.  Quick to drop into zone and covers enough ground to be Tampa-2 MIKE but some feel better suited as a WLB maximize range/speed.  Expecting Shaquille ‘Darius’ Leonard 2018-2021 vibes along with JOKs 2021-2023 production traits.  Both were drafted in Round 2 but should been first rounders.  Perkins replaces EJ Speed.   Round 2 Edge/RDE Elijah Alston (Miami) –Alston was an All-Sun Belt selection in 2023.  In 2023 he had a 91.0 overall grade and 90.5 pass-rushing grade based on 235 pass rush snaped while at Marshal Alston also racked up 36 QB pressures, 5 sacks plus 24 defensive stops during this period.  By mid-November Alston was ranked 4th best (Marshawn Kneeland was #3) Edge behind #1 Latu whom the Colts selected in Round 1.   2023 College Football All-Sun Belt Team.  Looking forward to the Cal game and how he does against RB Jaydn Ott, RT Victor Stoffel, and LG Rush Reimer.  Duke’s new RT Micah Sahakian matchup is another one would like to see.  RB Quinton Cooley (Wake Forest) who transferred from Liberty and earned 2023 College Football All-CUSA Team is another key matchup.  Finally, TE/WR Oronde Gadsden II of Syracuse could test his coverage skills.  The Colts done well and am looking forward to seeing Paye/Latu tandem then creating another one with Odeyingbo and Alston.  Ebukam will be a FA after 2025 but could be cut/traded save cap space.  Close build to Ebukam and Leo with 2” taller than Avery with Avery an upcoming FA and no guarantee we can resign Odeyingbo with the minimal cap space currently projected.   Round 3 LT J.C. Davis (Illinois) - The New Mexico Lobos ran a zone-scheme concept 318 times in 2023 and Davis was on the field for 316 of those snaps where he helped the team earn a 91.5 rushing grade with 58 explosive runs.  Davis is well-rounded earning a 78.6 inside-zone run grade and a 78.4 outside-zone run grade.  See how well Davis does after transferring the Big 10 this season.  Overall, 82.4 run-blocking grade in 2023.  Comparison Illinois Isaiah Adams was drafted #71 by Arizona and was ranked 8th best zone OL in 2023 and Davis was 5th best.  In 2022 Davis earned a 66.8 overall PFF grade and in 2023 had an 87.1 pass-blocking grade.  If the Colts do trade/cap release Braden Smith than Davis is a high target to hopefully take early to replace him.   Round 4 TE Jalin Conyers (Texas Tech) - In 2022 Conyers forced 21 missed tackles which led all TEs in the country.  Plus, ranked 4th in receiving yards after contact (170).  As a redshirt freshman in 2021 had a 73.5 pass-blocking grade while playing at Arizona State.  Conyers can be elusive with the ball in his hands.  In his first season was used heavily as a run-blocker (2021) and excelled as a blocker ranking him 4th in the Pac-12.  Back in August 2023 Rick Spielman said he may be the best run-blocking TE in the class behind Cade Stover.  Considered a true Y TE efficient at run-blocking and can catch with run-after ability.  Spielman said last year would have had a Late Day 2 grade, while Ryan Wilson says Rounds 3-4.  Potential to be a red zone monster in the NFL if he continues to grow his game.  Last year Round 4 was where tight ends were drafted and expect the same again in 2025.  Replaces Mo Alie-Cox.   Round 5 Edge/RDE Anton Juncaj (Arkansas) – 2023 College Football FCS All-America Team while at Albany.  2022 PFF grade of 75.1.  2023 final defense grade of 91.3, run defense 87.4, pass rush 90.6 and 68.5 coverage grade and racked up 55 tackles (34 solo), 21.5 TFL, 15 sacks, 3 PD and forced 5 fumbles.  Key matchups against RB Ollie Gordon II (Oklahoma St) the Reigning Doak Walker Award Winner from 2023 and projected first rounder LT Kelvin Banks Jr (Texas).   Round 6 Rover/SLB-SAF Justin Barron (Syracuse) - 2023 College Football All-ACC Team.  Defensive Captain. 6’4” 231 pounds had 0.5 sacks, 3 *, 1 FR, 1 INT, and 8 PDs in 2023 (81.4 PFF grade).  In 2022 had 64 tackles and 5 TFLs.  Reminds me of Jaylon Carlies whom the Colts just drafted in Round 5P151.  Key matchup versus Cal and RB Jayden Ott.  WR Eric Singleton Jr (Georgia Tech), WR Kevin Concepcion (NC State), WR-X Ricky White (UNLV), RB Desmond Reid, TE Justin Joly (UConn).  Solid in zone coverage.   Round 7 SS Mishael Powell Miami (FL) – Powell transferred from Washington.  In Week 8 he clocked 21.0 mph.  In 876 snaps in 2023 Powell played 477 in the slot, 165 in the box, and 122 at FS finishing with a strong 73.9 coverage and 69 defensive grades.   Potential UDFAs ·         QB KJ Jefferson (Arkansas) - 2023 PFF TOW 2 honors ·         R3-UDFA RT Jalen Travis (Iowa State) 6’7” 310 pounds - While at Princeton finished with an overall 80.7 PFF Grade and 9th best OT in D1 (89% pass blocking and 75% run blocking grades). – Much like OT Tyler McLellan (Campbell) signed with Chargers, project to UDFA in 2025.  See how he does at Iowa State against better competition as he graded slightly behind Kiran Amegadjie (Yale) who was drafted in Round 3 P11 by the Bears in 2024 NFL draft.  Listed as backup behind Tyler Miller. ·         LT Adam Karas (Air Force) - After 9 weeks Karas has an 83.9 run-blocking grade and an overall PFF grade of 87.4.  Overall, 86.3 PFF grade with just one penalty and 1 QB hurry on 296 total snaps.  Decent height 6’4” ·         RT Josh Fryar (OSU) - 2023 earned college football midseason all-America Honorable Mention.  Fryar finished 2023 with a 70.8 overall PFF grade.  Great height 6’6”.  Finished with a 70.8 PFF grade.  Gave up a team high 5 sacks but did earn a 77.2 run blocking grade and a 71.2 pass blocking grade. ·         LG Rush Reimer (Cal) – In 2023 Reimer earned first-team All-Big Sky Conference at LG with an overall 75.8 PFF Grade (D1-T8) at Montana State.  See how he does against better CFB competition.  Project goes UDFA much like Jake Kubas (7) (NY Giants), Ross Palmer (3), and (2) Donny Ventrelli (Bears).  Could be the next Mason McCormick (6) drafted by the Steelers P119 in the 2024 NFL draft.  Montana State used a lot of Inside Zone runs.  Cal has Reimer listed as backup LT for 2024. ·         RT/OG Grey Zabel (North Dakota State) 6’6” 296 pounds.  Zabel finished 2023 with an overall 79.3 PFF Grade as an OG.  Finished 10th among other listed tackles last season.  As a guard would have been 4th best D1.  Zabel started all 15 games in 2023 with 3 at guard and 12 at RT. ·         RB Harrison Waylee (Wyoming) – In 2023 clocked 21.8 mph in Week 4 T18 fastest player. ·         RB/KR Lan Larison (UC Davis) finished 2023 tied 7th overall FCS RB with an overall 89.2 PFF Grade (R5) in D1.  On 178 carries rushed for 1101 yards scoring 13 TDS while adding two more through the air on 21 REC for 198 yards.  Larison was the 2023 Big Sky Offensive Player of the Year.  In 2021 averaged 29.91 yards as a kick returner and 21.9 yards in 2022. ·         SWR/RB/KR/PR Chris Tyree (ND) 4.29s-forty speed excellent 3.95s shuttle (HS) and 38” vertical (HS).  In 2023 Week 9 clocked 21.0 mph. ·         WRX/Z Bo Belquist (North Dakota) 2023 overall 88.6 PFF Grade.  For D1 graded out as one of the top 10 WRs behind Hayden Hatten 86.1 whom the Seahawks added as an UDFA. ·         SWR Jacob De Jesus (UNLV) – best PR/KR #3 in PR and #13 in KR.  De Jesus was a top nomination to win the Jet Award in 2023 who was given to Zachariah Branch (USC). ·         WR-X Dymere Miller (Rutgers) – 2023 College Football FCS All-America Team with Monmouth.  Miller finished as the best receiver (D1) in 2023 with a 92.3 PFF grade (only behind Nabers).  Monmouth ran an inside zone with three different concepts in its base A gap zone.  Also pinched in as a kickoff returner with success (13.67 and 12.5 avgs). ·         WR Isaac TeSlaa (Arkansas) – Great Midwest American Conference Offensive Player of the Year in 2022 and received Honorable Mention All-American.  Strengths are ball tracking, hands, athleticism, 50/50 extraordinaire. ·         LEdge Aaron Lewis (Rutgers) - 2022 PFF Weeks 6 and 12 honors.  A disappointing 2023 season compared to 2022 grading 10 points lower.  (75.9 in 2023 compared to 85.5 in 2022).  Poor run-defense grade of 59.8 but was still an elite pass rusher.  His 91.5 pass-rushing grade since 2022 ranks 10th among all FBS edge defenders and his 18.7% pass-rush win rate places 11th in Power Five.  Needs to improve his run game. ·         Jack OLB/RDE Steve Linton (Baylor) – Linton transferred to Baylor from Texas Tech.  Injury prone, in 2023 suffered a broken thumb in August, sprained ankle in Big 12 opener vs West Virginia, aggravated it the following week then missed the last four games of regular season with back problems.  72% tackling, 88% pass rush, 61% run defense, 72% coverage.  Decent 4.62s-forty speed and 6’5” 235 pounds. ·         NCB Yam Banks (Ole’ Miss) - Made 2022 PFF College All-America Second Team while playing at South Alabama.  For 2024 listed as backup.  In 2022 Banks was a first-team All-Sun Belt pick and third team in 2023.  In 45 games, Banks racked up 147 TOT, 7 INT (6 in 2022 T3 in nation). ·         LCB Tommi Hill (Nebraska) – 4.55s forty speed.  In 2023 had an outstanding QB rating when targeted of 38.6.  With another solid year Hill could move up.  ·         FS Saiku White (Lafayette) - In 2023 White moved from SS to FS and had a career year with a final 2023 defense grade 91.4 best for 2nd, pass rush grade 74.4, a 90.7 coverage grade 4th best, and an 80.7 run defense grade 98th.   Team Captain. Achieved a 3.75 GPA in 2023. ·         LS Byron Floyd (PITT) – Floyds 81.7 grade this season leads all FBS LS.  Of his 41 LS on both punts/kicks only one has been charted as off-target.  Does have ties to Colts new DL coach.  Luke Rhodes, age 32, signed a 4-year contract extension on 09/23.  ·         LS Nick Barcelos (Nevada) - 2023 college football midseason all-America Second Team as a long snapper – Luke Rhodes signed a 4-year extension with the Colts September 8th, 2023.
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