Colts Safety Deemed Trade Fit for NFC Contender

The Indianapolis Colts are 3-4 on the season in the midst of a rebuilding year. They likely won't be buyers by the trade deadline on October 31st. However, they could move a player or two without significantly impacting their talent level.

Safety Julian Blackmon is a name that is picking up steam as we tick closer to the deadline. Earlier this week, ESPN named Blackmon a potential-trade target, and now Kevin Patra of NFL.com is doubling down by naming the Detroit Lions as the ideal fit.

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"If the Colts are looking to find a way to get 2022 third-round pick Nick Cross on the field more, they could make it easier by shipping out Blackmon, who is in the final year of his rookie contract," wrote Patra on NFL.com.

"The Lions' secondary is banged up and could use aid. Blackmon is the type of versatile defender who could help Detroit cover its injury woes. The former third-round pick spent his first three seasons as a free safety before moving to strong safety this season.

"Blackmon also has played 103 snaps at slot corner for Indianapolis this season and has a 62.3 passer rating against, 12th-best among safeties, per PFF."

Blackmon is rated the No. 11 safety in the NFL according to PFF with a total grade of 77.0. Cross has only seen 10 snaps on defense so far this season.

The Lions are currently the No. 2 seed in the NFC and should be willing to part with future draft picks to solidify their status as contenders.

Blackmon just turned 25-years old and will be relatively cheap on a second contract despite his expiring-rookie deal. He could be seen as a building block for the Colts' future, but if he's deemed expendable, he'd have no shortage of suitors.

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