The Indianapolis Colts need a wide receiver and AJ Green is an intriguing option.
The Indianapolis Colts are 4-2 heading into the bye week but there are admittedly many problems with this team. We can’t ignore the fact that they went down 21-0 to an inferior Cincinnati Bengals side before staging an epic comeback to capture the 31-27 win on Sunday.
This team lost to the Jacksonville Jaguars in Week 1 and gave up 32 points to the Cleveland Browns in another loss in Week 5. Though the team looked great against the Minnesota Vikings and New York Jets, the defense did the heavy lifting in those contests while the offense was largely stagnant.
That’s due to a number of reasons. There are a ton of injuries right now. Philip Rivers is forcing a lot of throws. TY Hilton is non-existent.
So what should the team do? The offense needs a spark, and perhaps a veteran in need of a change of scenery could help in a big way.
AJ Green, anyone?
A.J. Green has four catches. All four have resulted in first downs—three came on third down.
— James Rapien (@JamesRapien) October 18, 2020
How fitting, too, considering he had his breakout performance of the season against the Colts in Week 6? Indy gives him life and then acquires him in a trade. Perfect.
Why would this potential deal make sense? The Colts are without Michael Pittman Jr. and Parris Campbell for the foreseeable future. It’s largely unknown when either of them will return. TY Hilton has proven he will be no help in 2020 and it’s clear he won’t be returning after this year. That leaves Indy with Zach Pascal and Marcus Johnson as the top options at wideout. None of that is conducive to a playoff run.
Additionally, Green could probably be had for a late-round pick since he’ll be a free agent at the end of the year. He’s exactly the kind of possession receiver Rivers needs in the passing game. A big body who can make plays outside the numbers is what the offense is missing at the moment, though the team is hoping Pittman Jr. can be that guy eventually.
Colts Listed as Logical Landing Trade Spot for Bengals Blazing Fast Wideout John Ross https://t.co/h1btaqeJtG
— Stampede Blue (@StampedeBlue) October 20, 2020
And what if Green fits in well? The Colts could have first dibs on him in free agency and perhaps keep him on board on a short-term deal after Hilton leaves. They can maintain that continuity with a veteran to help out Pittman Jr. and Campbell, both of whom figure to be key offensive figures for years to come.
Low-risk, high-reward. Low-cost, no commitment. Fills a need on an injured area of the roster. Provides another veteran voice on a young team. If it works, there could. be a future. If it doesn’t, he walks and it’s done with.
General manager Chris Ballard should at least discuss it.
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