ESPN ranked the Colts to have the 4th-best offseason in the NFL. Here’s why Indianapolis’ offseason will soon be regarded as the league’s best.
The Colts had an incredible offseason in 2020. From multiple Pro Bowlers to many depth additions in key spots, it’s safe to say that the team is poised for a deep postseason run. There are still a couple of needs that need to be filled, mostly in the secondary, but overall, it was one of the best offseasons in the NFL.
ESPN’s Bill Barnwell ranked the Colts offseason as the 4th-best in the NFL. Ahead of them were the Broncos, Browns, and Buccaneers. Barnwell pegged the upgrade of Margus Hunt to All-Pro DeForest Buckner as the biggest upgrade for any team at any position.
"Our Mike Clay pegged the upgrade from Margus Hunt to former 49ers star DeForest Buckner at defensive tackle as the largest any team made at any position this offseason. The trade for Buckner gives the Colts a two-way superstar in the prime of his career."
He also applauded the addition of Philip Rivers as a solid replacement for Jacoby Brissett, albeit a short-term one.
"At quarterback, it found a short-term replacement for Andrew Luck by signing Philip Rivers, who will move Jacoby Brissett back into the No. 2 role."
Apart from that, Barnwell’s assessment of the Colts’ offseason was critical on three main things:
1. Buckner’s expensive contract
2. Lack of offensive line depth
3. Secondary upgrades
In this piece, I’m going to defend each of Barnwell’s criticisms of the team’s offseason, as well as discussing why it will end up as the best in the NFL.