5 Bridge Quarterbacks Colts Could Target in Free Agency
The Indianapolis Colts made their first big decision of the offseason last week by hiring former Philadelphia Eagles offensive coordinator Shane Steichen as their next head coach.
The next big decision the Colts will need to make is which rookie quarterback they want to take in the 2023 NFL Draft. With the No.4 overall pick, the Colts will take their next signal-caller with that selection. General manager Chris Ballard must nail this pick, as the future of the franchise rests on getting the quarterback position right.
However, even with the Colts taking a rookie quarterback high in the draft, Indy could be looking to add a veteran quarterback this offseason. Adding a veteran, or 'bridge," quarterback gives the Colts an option in case the rookie is not ready to play right away. The veteran quarterback could also take on the backup role and help mentor the rookie as he adjusts to the pro game.
Now I know what you're thinking: The Colts already have veterans Matt Ryan and Nick Foles on the roster. Why not just roll with them as mentors/bridge quarterbacks?
Both Ryan and Foles proved they were not the answer for the Colts last season, and neither is in the Colts' future plans. It is expected that both will be cut once the league year starts in March if they choose not to retire. Cutting Ryan and Foles creates an extra $19.3 million in cap space for the Colts.
So, with that in mind, here are five quarterbacks who the Colts could target as a bridge quarterback in free agency and their likelihood of signing in Indy.
Gardner Minshew - Philadelphia Eagles
Jacoby Brissett - Cleveland Browns
Teddy Bridgewater - Miami Dolphins
Sam Darnold - Carolina Panthers
Andy Dalton - New Orleans Saints
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