Though the Indianapolis Colts have a cavalcade of young pass rushers with high upside, it’s a little concerning they have no proven veterans on the edge.
Of course, Justin Houston and Denico Autry, the Colts’ starting defensive end duo from last season, left in free agency, though the former is still looking for a new home.
At this rate, Indy is projected to start Tyquan Lewis and first-rounder Kwity Paye at defensive end this upcoming season. The likes of Kemoko Turay, second-rounder Dayo Odeyingbo, Al-Quadin Muhamed and potentially Ben Banogu will fill in behind them as reserves.
Could that group create enough consistency to take the burden off the second and third levels of the Colts’ defense? Potentially, but you know what would swiftly end all speculation about the team’s suspect pass rush? Trading for Chandler Jones.
Over the weekend, ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler sent social media ablaze after he reported Jones requested a trade from the Cardinals this offseason.
We know the Colts have been linked with every DE under the sun since the start of free agency, but they’re clearly among the realistic landing spots for Jones.
One nice fit for Chandler Jones who wouldn't need financial gymnastics to make it work?
— Matt Verderame (@MattVerderame) July 25, 2021
The Colts.
Despite being 31, Jones is a top-tier edge rusher who would replace (and likely surpass) Justin Houston's production
The Colts better be in on the Chandler Jones trade sweepstakes.
It’s worth noting the Cardinals are adamant about not wanting to trade Jones, and why would they be after all the moves they made to build around Kyler Murray? However, player power has never been more prevalent than in 2021. If Arizona is unable to sign Jones to a new deal or give him a proper raise, you better believe there will be more friction.
If that happens, Colts general manager Chris Ballard should be waiting to pick up the pieces. If Ballard and head coach Frank Reich are serious about Indy’s championship window being open starting in 2021, this is the type of move you make to get over the hump.
Think about what acquiring Jones would do to the Colts’ standing among the upper echelon squads in the AFC. We’d put them right up there with the likes of the Chiefs, Bills and Browns, whereas right now they might be a tick or two behind those three heavyweights.
At the very least, adding Jones would take Indianapolis a step above the second-tier of contenders, which includes the Ravens, Titans, Steelers and maybe Patriots. After all, Jones has the most sacks of any player (97) since he entered the league back in 2012.
All-Pro pass rusher Chandler Jones requested a trade from the Arizona Cardinals this offseason, per sources. Jones has been unhappy with his contract and future with the team. Cardinals don’t want to trade him and expect him to report to camp. But certainly a situation to watch.
— Jeremy Fowler (@JFowlerESPN) July 25, 2021
Furthermore, in seasons where Jones has played at least 15 games (six of his nine), he’s averaged 55.5 tackles (15.3 tackles of which went for a loss), 14.0 sacks, 23.2 quarterback hits and four forced fumbles. Those numerous are flat-out ridiculous, folks.
Nothing should dissuade Ballard from pursuing Jones. The reconstruction of the Colts’ roster should be nearing completion, if it isn’t already finished. Now’s the time to start unloading draft picks in exchange for players who can maximize the team’s championship window.
Given their need for a proven pass rusher, Jones could be the final piece to the puzzle.
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