ESPN Links Lamar Jackson to Colts
Bill Barnwell of ESPN wrote a giant column this week on how to improve all 32 teams in the NFL. When it came to the Indianapolis Colts, the quarterback position was on his mind.
Specifically for the Colts, Barnwell didn't have anything too groundbreaking in his analysis. It was simply to move on from quarterback Matt Ryan. That's been in the cards since Ryan was benched the first time last season.
The Colts likely will cut Ryan, a move which will free up $17.2 million on their 2023 cap, though $12 million of his base salary already is guaranteed. The team will be on the hook for that amount if he doesn't sign elsewhere. I have no doubt Ryan could find an opportunity somewhere as a veteran backup for one of the many teams running a version of the Kyle Shanahan offense, but with that $12 million bringing his career earnings north of $300 million, nobody would fault the 2016 MVP if he chose to retire. -- Bill Barnwell, ESPN+
Barnwell wasn't ready to place all the blame on Ryan for his performance, but he admits Ryan's price tag and performance aren't equitable.
Where Barnwell's analysis of 32 teams became more interesting was with the Baltimore Ravens. He suggests the Ravens should seriously consider trading quarterback Lamar Jackson, and the Colts could be one team both willing and with a high, valuable draft pick willing to make a deal.
Of course, all first-round picks aren't created equal, which makes the decision just that much more difficult for Baltimore. Getting the No. 29 overall pick and a 2024 first-rounder from the Saints or the No. 25 pick and a 2024 first-rounder from the Giants might not be an exciting return for a 26-year-old former MVP.
With that in mind, it makes sense for the Ravens to approach teams in the top half of Round 1 about Jackson. Would the Falcons be willing to send the No. 8 overall pick and a 2024 first-rounder? Would the Panthers make a similar deal from No. 9, or the Titans at No. 11? Should the Ravens call Colts team owner Jim Irsay about the No. 4 overall pick, put the phone on hold and just play a loop of Sam Ehlinger and Carson Wentz turnovers until Irsay gives in? -- Bill Barnwell, ESPN+
The Colts have been linked to nearly every quarterback under the sun in the last three months, why not Jackson?
The Atlanta Falcons have been heavily linked if a trade happens, partially because of the type of offense the Falcons run.
The Colts' recent hire of Shane Steichen would negate any advantage the Falcons might have in recruiting Jackson.
How tantalizing would it be to see Jackson playing the role of Jalen Hurts in a Colts attack?
Colts fans are obviously tired of re-tread quarterbacks, but there's a world of difference between guys on the back end of their careers and Jackson who is still in his mid twenties.
It might be a longshot that Jackson even leaves Baltimore, but if he does... why not the Indianapolis Colts?
