After a shocking start to the season that even the most optimistic fans couldn’t have foreseen, the Indianapolis Colts are in position to make a push for a deep playoff run. Jonathan Taylor and Daniel Jones are leading one of the most dominant offenses in football, lifting the team atop the AFC South.
With the NFL’s trade deadline rapidly approaching, the Colts have an important decision to make. They can either ride out the rest of the season with their current roster or push their chips to the center of the table and make a trade to improve their chances.
According to NFL insider Albert Breer, Indianapolis could be in the market for an edge rusher. With New York Jets star Jermaine Johnson potentially available, the Colts have a clear offer to make.
Indianapolis Colts could have the perfect trade package for Jermaine Johnson
In a recent article detailing recent trade rumors around the league, Breer said, “Indy could also look at adding an edge player, and teams have called to inquire on the Colts’ own surplus of receivers, so a wideout could end up being a chip for them in a trade.”
The Colts’ surplus at receiver makes them the perfect trade partner for a Jets team in desperate need of another pass catcher. Outside of Garrett Wilson, New York lacks a reliable target for Justin Fields. At the trade deadline, they could be looking to add a receiver.
Meanwhile, Indianapolis is on the lookout for another pass rusher. The Jets have a surplus at the position, making the two teams perfect trade partners.
According to recent reports, New York wants a second-round pick in exchange for its edge defender. It’s a steep price, but the Colts may be able to work out a deal by including a receiver in the package. Second-year wideout Adonai Mitchell is the most obvious candidate.
He’s largely fallen out of favor this season, falling down the depth chart as players like Alec Pierce and Josh Downs solidify their places above him. Mitchell and a mid-round pick are likely the best package that the Colts would be willing to offer.
While the Jets have seemingly played hardball in trade talks so far, teams often become desperate at the deadline. So, could a package of Mitchell and a fourth-round pick be enough to bring Johnson to Indianapolis? If no other teams are willing to meet New York’s asking price, it may get the deal done.