With GM Chris Ballard gone and a roster full of needs, the Colts could trade veterans for draft picks before the deadline. But Indianapolis must balance rebuilding with keeping enough talent on hand to evaluate coach Shane Steichen through the season.

By the Numbers
  • Indianapolis has no first-round pick in 2027.
  • Quenton Nelson is graded as the No. 1 guard among 77 qualifying players by Pro Football Focus.
  • DeForest Buckner has 26 tackles, 4 tackles for loss, 4 sacks, 1 fumble recovery and 3 pass deflections in 6 games.
Yes, But

Nelson and Buckner are attractive trade candidates: both are playing well, and their contracts are nearing expiration. Moving key veterans could bring back valuable picks, but it could also leave Steichen with too little talent for a meaningful evaluation.

State of Play
  • Rival teams reportedly expect Indianapolis to consider selling before the deadline at the end of Week 9.
  • Other players who could draw interest include Josh Downs, Keenan Allen, Grover Stewart and Jerry Tillery.
  • The roster has major gaps, including at quarterback.
What's Next

The Colts’ deadline approach will show whether they prioritize adding draft capital or preserving enough of the current roster to assess Steichen. Nelson and Buckner could be among the most closely watched names.

Bottom Line

Indianapolis has reason to sell, but a full teardown could complicate its evaluation of the coach. The challenge is turning expiring veteran contracts into future assets without undermining the rest of the season.