2025 Indianapolis Colts...Let's Get Physical,... Physical

[Kingspoint]

Stephen Holder, May 12, 2025, 06:00 AM ET

INDIANAPOLIS -- Indianapolis Colts defensive tackle DeForest Buckner was not content to merely accept other people's word when it came to forming an opinion of new defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo. So, shortly after the former Cincinnati Bengals coordinator joined the Colts in January, Buckner started digging. And when the Colts returned to Indianapolis for the start of offseason workouts in recent weeks, much of Buckner's findings were confirmed. "When I was doing my research on him, I saw that a lot of the players back in Cincy used to call him the 'Mad Scientist'," Buckner said. "And I found out why when I got the first install. It's been some good stuff."

It's still a full four months before the Colts kick off the 2025 season, but Anarumo's impact is already being felt throughout Colts headquarters: He is changing the way the Colts think about defense in big and small ways. One example: The way he plans to deploy free agent signee Charvarius Ward to, at times, shadow opponents' top wideouts regardless of where they line up in the offensive formation. That's something not seen in Indianapolis since the late Vontae Davis did it, periodically, in the mid-2010s.

Fortunately for Anarumo, he'll have a nice collection of talent with which to work. As Cincinnati's defensive personnel losses mounted in recent years, Anarumo's results suffered. With players such as defensive back Jessie Bates III departing the past two years, it complicated Anarumo's ability to use his complex tactics with younger players in the lineup. Among those complexities is his tendency to vary his defensive attack based on a given week's opponent. But with the experienced personnel he'll have in Indianapolis, Anarumo has greater flexibility.

https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/45068386/nfl-colts-lou-anarumo-deforest-buckner

[Kingspoint]

May 11th, 2025 at 9:08pm CST by Ely Allen

After selecting an eight-man draft class equally balanced on offense and defense, the Colts continued their balanced ways with 14 undrafted free agent signings. Here are the newest additions to the team’s 22-man rookie class:

Devonta Davis, DT (FAU)
Solomon DeShields, LB (Texas A&M)
Johnathan Edwards, CB (Tulane)
Joe Evans, DT (UTSA)
Marshall Foerner, T (Minnesota State)
Tyler Kahmann, WR (Emporia State)
Desmond Little, DE (UAB)
Maximilian Mang, TE (Syracuse)
Coleman Owen, WR (Ohio)
Landon Parker, WR (Troy)
Blayne Taylor, WR (Abilene Christian)
Ladarius Tennison, S (UCF)
Maddux Trujillo, K (Temple)
Trey Washington, S (Ole Miss)

https://www.profootballrumors.com/2025/05/colts-announce-signing-of-14-man-udfa-class

[Kingspoint]

Colts Sign TE Tyler Warren, Six Other Draft Picks

May 9th, 2025 at 11:16am CST by Adam La Rose

Seven of the Colts’ nine draft picks are on the books. First-round tight end Tyler Warren is among the draftees who are officially under contract, the team announced on Friday. Warren’s four-year pact is worth $20.96MM, as noted by Fox Sports’ Jordan Schultz. That figure is guaranteed in full and it includes an $11.88MM signing bonus. Like all Day 1 selections, Warren will be eligible to have his 2029 fifth-year option picked up.

https://www.profootballrumors.com/2025/05/colts-sign-te-tyler-warren-six-other-draft-picks

[Kingspoint]

One of the Colts' most pressing issues is the quality of play moving forward at the Center position having lost Ryan Kelly to the Vikings.

https://www.si.com/nfl/colts/news/colts-young-talent-getting-overlooked-tanor-bortolini

"While linebacker was considered, the Colts' current starting center is second-year man Tanor Bortolini. He started five games last season but had only a 91.3% pass block win rate as a center, far below the league average of 93.8%. His run block win rate was also below average. Backup Wesley French started three games in 2023 but didn't play last season due to an ankle injury." Bortolini took over as the general of the offensive line when he was thrust into the role when Kelly was out with injuries. Bortolini made five starts and, while he struggled at times, looked competent for a rookie that was replacing a Pro Bowl-level talent.

Per Pro Football Focus, Bortolini's grades may not have been the sexiest (65.1 overall, 64.6 pass-blocking, and 65.4 run-blocking), but he still wasn't a liability and played well enough in his debut campaign. He also allowed no sacks in 211 pass-blocking snaps and showcased athleticism at the center position for line coach Tony Sparano Jr.'s crew.


The Colts didn't use a draft pick on the Center position, clearly convinced that Bortolini can make the jump over the next two seasons to "above average", which is still below the expectations of an Indianapolis Colt's Center, where the floor has always been "Pro Bowl". The Colts take the Center position seriously (unlike the Bengals).

[Assembly Hall]

Something tells me that it is gonna be long year. I am, however, looking forward to the Bears season.

[Kingspoint]

Something tells me that it is gonna be long year. I am, however, looking forward to the Bears season.

Who is Quarterbacking the Colts?

[Assembly Hall]

Who is Quarterbacking the Colts?

"Open competition" is what I do believe Ballard said. Leonard is my man. Go Irish!

[UKFlounder]

22628

[dubc47834]

:cry::cry::cry::cry::cry:

[Assembly Hall]

We lost a good one.

RIP Jim, you will be missed.

[Kingspoint]

With the passing of Jim Irsay, that now makes about 13 of the NFL teams that are owned or co-owned by a woman as Carlie Irsay-Gordon, is expected to be the “new person in charge.”

[Tony Cloninger]

The original article sounds like it was written by a Bengals fan.

Yes Lou lost Jesse Bates. Who else did the article mention that they lost that was any substance? Zero you say? That would be about it. Losing Bell didn’t help and he showed he was not much after he left and even worse after he came back.

He lost no one. I will say he did not gain much either. So if these guys that either he agreed with that should be drafted did not work or was not able to pick up his defense. And it seems a lot of them are not able to do so.

Lou refused to adjust his defense complexity to help until it seems late in the season and he kept using a barely capable Sam Hubbard over anyone. I mean at some point it’s on Lou more or was.

I guess we will see this year. But we will always have those KC wins though to remember.

[Kingspoint]

The original article sounds like it was written by a Bengals fan.

Yes Lou lost Jesse Bates. Who else did the article mention that they lost that was any substance? Zero you say? That would be about it. Losing Bell didn’t help and he showed he was not much after he left and even worse after he came back.

He lost no one. I will say he did not gain much either. So if these guys that either he agreed with that should be drafted did not work or was not able to pick up his defense. And it seems a lot of them are not able to do so.

Lou refused to adjust his defense complexity to help until it seems late in the season and he kept using a barely capable Sam Hubbard over anyone. I mean at some point it’s on Lou more or was.

I guess we will see this year. But we will always have those KC wins though to remember.

I'm his biggest supporter and I agree that eventually it became on Lou. It doesn't mean that he can't learn from the situation, adjust and become a better Defensive Coordinator because of his experience in Cincinnati. I think he's going to be better overall in Indy than he was in Cincy. He's highly intelligent and learns from his mistakes.

[Kingspoint]

https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/45364597/colts-veteran-former-star-reflect-irsay-passion-team

Among those who offered vivid remembrances was former Colts receiver and current receivers coach Reggie Wayne, who said he implored his pupils to learn more about just what the team has lost.

"I told the receivers, a lot of y'all don't really know him but he would've done anything for anybody," Wayne said while failing to fight back tears. "He would've gave the clothes off his back ... I said, y'all got to push your asses for him. He would've done that for y'all. So, that's what I told them. I said, 'Y'all got homework to do, man. Read about him. Learn about him.'"

[Assembly Hall]

AR-0 hurt. Imagine that? Leonard looking good for the Horseshoes.

[Assembly Hall]

QB competition...

https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/colts-qb-battle-how-daniel-jones-and-anthony-richardson-fared-vs-packers-who-has-edge-right-now/

[Sea Ray]

QB competition...

https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/colts-qb-battle-how-daniel-jones-and-anthony-richardson-fared-vs-packers-who-has-edge-right-now/

And the competition is over. Looks like the Richardson experiment is over

https://sports.yahoo.com/nfl/breaking-news/article/colts-name-daniel-jones-starting-quarterback-over-anthony-richardson-145106159.html

[Assembly Hall]

And the competition is over. Looks like the Richardson experiment is over

https://sports.yahoo.com/nfl/breaking-news/article/colts-name-daniel-jones-starting-quarterback-over-anthony-richardson-145106159.html

The experiment was over for me when Tony tapped out of a game.

[Assembly Hall]

"Open competition" is what I do believe Ballard said. Leonard is my man. Go Irish!

Leonard looked great yesterday.

[Assembly Hall]

Didn't see this one coming. Jones looking like a HoFer. All Colts thus far.

[dubc47834]

Didn't see this one coming. Jones looking like a HoFer. All Colts thus far.

This is the crappy part of moving to Alabama, I dont get to watch the Colts on regular TV. I get the Falcons/Bucs

[Assembly Hall]

According to CBS Sports Research, Week 1 marked the first time a Daniel Jones-led team scored on every first-half drive in his 70 NFL starts. The Colts would go on to score on every single drive -- becoming the first team since at least 2000, regular season or postseason, to score on every possession.

[Kingspoint]

Didn't see this one coming. Jones looking like a HoFer. All Colts thus far.

Hell of a game for Anarumo, also. Came within 6-1/2 minutes of getting Indy's first shutout since 2021. Only a desperation 11-yard scramble on 4th and goal by Achane was the only blip. Indy only gave up 211 yards including only 43 in the 1st half, the same number of plays that the Colts ran in the 1st Half.

Texans lost.

Titans lost.

1-0 JAX vs 1-0 CIN next week.

[Kingspoint]

I've heard some comments about the Dolphins that have been 100% wrong.

They didn't score strictly because Tua is a 1st read only Quarterback. He panics after the 2nd read. Xavier Howard talks about it after the game. Anarumo took away the 1st read on every play. Tua then goes into panic mode because he now can't get rid of it quickly, the only way he can have success. As a result, multiple interceptions and 6 sacks left them unable to move the ball or score for 3-1/2 quarters.

When Tua can get rid of the ball quickly on his 1st read he's good. But, he's a 2nd tier QB who will never do anything except pile up 10-7 regular seasons with 1-and-done in the playoffs. Now with Hill being arrested on battery charges, his #1 1st read is a problem.

Colts added good players in the off-season.

Watching Kelly play well for the Vikings last night pissed me off that the Bengals didn't go get him and move Karras to RG. Instead they stuck with a C who is always below-average to average, then give him an extension. Sorry, Joe. They just don't get it. Now RG is still bad. New Starter gets injured on the 1st drive of the season.

[Sea Ray]

I've heard some comments about the Dolphins that have been 100% wrong.

They didn't score strictly because Tua is a 1st read only Quarterback. He panics after the 2nd read. Xavier Howard talks about it after the game. Anarumo took away the 1st read on every play. Tua then goes into panic mode because he now can't get rid of it quickly, the only way he can have success. As a result, multiple interceptions and 6 sacks left them unable to move the ball or score for 3-1/2 quarters.

When Tua can get rid of the ball quickly on his 1st read he's good. But, he's a 2nd tier QB who will never do anything except pile up 10-7 regular seasons with 1-and-done in the playoffs. Now with Hill being arrested on battery charges, his #1 1st read is a problem.

Colts added good players in the off-season.

Watching Kelly play well for the Vikings last night pissed me off that the Bengals didn't go get him and move Karras to RG. Instead they stuck with a C who is always below-average to average, then give him an extension. Sorry, Joe. They just don't get it. Now RG is still bad. New Starter gets injured on the 1st drive of the season.

I wonder why Lou couldn't do that as the Bengals D coordinator? When Baker Mayfield played for the Browns he had some of his best games vs the Bengals because his first read was always there. Frustrated me as a fan. Baker was like Tua...a first read QB

[Kingspoint]

I wonder why Lou couldn't do that as the Bengals D coordinator? When Baker Mayfield played for the Browns he had some of his best games vs the Bengals because his first read was always there. Frustrated me as a fan. Baker was like Tua...a first read QB

He could. He just had worse talent. Bengals drafted speed and measurables instead of football ability.

He also will have learned a lot from his experience. I expect him to be better than he was in Cincy, and he showed flashes of being the best in the league when it came to adjustments. He needed a fresh start. Bengals were his first real attempt at DC in the NFL.

[Kingspoint]

I wonder why Lou couldn't do that as the Bengals D coordinator? When Baker Mayfield played for the Browns he had some of his best games vs the Bengals because his first read was always there. Frustrated me as a fan. Baker was like Tua...a first read QB

I'll buy that, but it takes a Secondary that can read and cover. He never had that after Bates left. Lou was constantly frustrated that the reads were not being made because in real-time it comes down to the players making the play no matter what scheme is drawn up.

Geno Stone is really bad. Murphy? What a waste of a pick? You can go on and on with the Defense.

We were also devastated at DT last season. Everything was 2nd and short...3rd and short.

Indy had two ex-dolphins that knew everything about Tua, literally everything.

[Assembly Hall]

2-0 BABY! Daniel Jones for MVP.

The Colts scored on their first 3 possessions yesterday which means they started the season scoring on their first 10 to start the season. A NFL record.

The Colts have not punted yet in the first 2 games. Also a NFL record.

[RiverRat13]

2-0 BABY! Daniel Jones for MVP.

The Colts scored on their first 3 possessions yesterday which means they started the season scoring on their first 10 to start the season. A NFL record.

The Colts have not punted yet in the first 2 games. Also a NFL record.

And all of the radar gun "watch the film" guys on X can't believe they didn't start Richardson.

[Assembly Hall]

Super Bowl or bust!

https://www.cbssports.com/betting/news/nfl-futures-colts-become-new-favorites-to-win-afc-south-after-hot-start/

[Assembly Hall]

Well Indy finally punted yesterday...<sigh>.

[Kingspoint]

Lou Anarumo is adding Mike Hilton to an already decent Defense. He's great in the Nickel and Dime packages and is still great against the run, including being effective in Lou's numerous blitz options.

[Assembly Hall]

Lou Anarumo is adding Mike Hilton to an already decent Defense. He's great in the Nickel and Dime packages and is still great against the run, including being effective in Lou's numerous blitz options.

I'll remember you said that the first time Hilton gets torched! lol

[Kingspoint]

I'll remember you said that the first time Hilton gets torched! lol

I never said anything about his being able to be beat on double-moves.

[Kingspoint]

Lou's going to turn this group into a Top-5 Defense by the time December rolls around. It's already Top-10.

[Assembly Hall]

Lou's going to turn this group into a Top-5 Defense by the time December rolls around. It's already Top-10.

The Colts are a good football team. My biggest take from yesterday is that Vegas needs a different starting QB.

[Kingspoint]

Colts add Germaine Pratt. At least 4 other teams were interested, but Pratt chose to rejoin Anarumo.

[Kingspoint]

23161

[Kingspoint]

Lou and the Defense needs to win this game now.

[Kingspoint]

Newly signed Germaine Pratt is the game's leading Tackler with 11, 8 of the solo variety.

[Kingspoint]

One of those bend-don't-break games of Anarumo.

[Assembly Hall]

One of those bend-don't-break games of Anarumo.

I was not impressed with Indy's defense at all. Escaped with the win.

[dubc47834]

Maybe I should've moved out of state a long time ago. Since I've moved to Alabama, IU football has been ballin out, the Colts are playing good, and the Pacers are playing great!

[fearofpopvol1]

I thought the defense was solid in the first half but they pretty much died in the second half. Was quite bizarre. Taylor was the MVP.

Not going to get much easier, so need to regroup.

[Assembly Hall]

My Colts are looking like Super Bowl contenders. However, that injury bug has me concerned.

[fearofpopvol1]

Impressive win. On the road against a good team. But similar to last Sunday, defense in the second half started to die off a bit. Herbert is a very good QB but they couldn't stop the pass for the last 18 minutes or so.

Jones and Taylor probably should be mid-season MVP candidates.

[Sea Ray]

Awfully good football in the state of Indiana this year. Enjoy


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Assembly Hall]

Awfully good football in the state of Indiana this year. Enjoy


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

I expected the Hoosiers and Irish to be good. The Colts? Not the foggiest as to what they would do. Indiana Jones has been a godsend.

[Mutaman]

In 2020, 40 people were drafted ahead of Jonathan Taylor. Which makes you wonder if folks in the NFL know what they're doing.

[Sea Ray]

The NFL doesn’t value the RB position but that has changed a little since 2020


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Kingspoint]

Impressive win. On the road against a good team. But similar to last Sunday, defense in the second half started to die off a bit. Herbert is a very good QB but they couldn't stop the pass for the last 18 minutes or so.

Jones and Taylor probably should be mid-season MVP candidates.

It was 30-10 in the 3rd Quarter. Defense was very good. At that point, you're just trying to keep the ball in front of you and eat up the clock. The yardage and points they gave up late were to the Rookie TE. The focus was to not get beat on the outside deep or to let Receivers stop the clock out of bounds. Short passes to the TE was fine with that lead.

- - - Updated - - -

Colts are the best team in the NFL.

[Kingspoint]

The NFL doesn’t value the RB position but that has changed a little since 2020


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

It's not so much that, but the change of rules that allowed QB's and WR's to work untouched. That in turn led to Defenses having to change their personnel to faster Back-Seven players, 2-Linebacker sets, which opened up opportunities for RB's to get to the 2nd level more often. When 3 LB's are plugging holes Runningbacks are getting hit at the LOS. Harder also to have a Safety up on the LOS.

What's amazing is that the Colts lost their Starting C the 1st day of Free Agency to the Vikings. The Warren pick was a great one. He's rewriting all Rookie TE records. Only wish the Bengals had made that choice instead of what's-his-name. But, that actually would have required them to be proactive and move up 3 spots instead of their usual "let the draft play them and then reach on a pick of someone with either combine measurables of an injury-history".

Going into Week 7, IND had PFF's #1 ranked Offensive Line. That's how you generate Offense. Jones is getting a lot of credit, but the Offensive Line should get as much, if not more.

[Assembly Hall]

Indy has scored 232 points in seven games. The Peyton Manning-led Colts teams never did that.

[Sea Ray]

Indy has scored 232 points in seven games. The Peyton Manning-led Colts teams never did that.

Impressive. Great story you have going on up there on I 74

[RichRed]

In a year in which the Patriots, Chiefs, and Steelers are all looking like potential playoff teams again (triple yuck), I’m rooting for the Colts in the AFC. We need some fresh blood.

[fearofpopvol1]

Indiana Jones? More like Daniel Unitas.

I'm curious to see if they can win the next two road games against the Steelers and the Falcons before their bye. That following game against Kansas City will be a big something either way.

[Kingspoint]

In a year in which the Patriots, Chiefs, and Steelers are all looking like potential playoff teams again (triple yuck), I’m rooting for the Colts in the AFC. We need some fresh blood.

Right now I'd rank the AFC...

IND (Class by themselves,...#1 Seed is theirs to lose.)

DEN (Most likely team to win the best Division in the AFC, while also earning the #2 Seed. Sean Payton is simply the best Head Coach in the NFL, like him or not.)

LAC (3rd best team in the AFC, but destined to be the #5 Seed, but they get the bonus of facing the winner of PIT/CIN)

NEP/BUF (One gets the #3 Seed, while the other gets a Wild Card berth as the #6 Seed and they will face each other in the 1st Rd.)

PIT/CIN (Default #4 Seed of a very crappy team that wins the crappiest Division in the NFL.)

HOU/KCC (The #7 Seed. Who do you think the NFL wants playing at Mile High in the Wild Card Round?)

[Assembly Hall]

Indiana Jones? More like Daniel Unitas.

I'm curious to see if they can win the next two road games against the Steelers and the Falcons before their bye. That following game against Kansas City will be a big something either way.

How about some vintage Bert Jones?

I am curious as to how the Colts perform in a raucous Pittsburgh. I know the Steel Curtain is in shambles right now but it would be so Steelerish if they played a complete game against us.

[Sea Ray]

Right now I'd rank the AFC...

IND (Class by themselves,...#1 Seed is theirs to lose.)

DEN (Most likely team to win the best Division in the AFC, while also earning the #2 Seed. Sean Payton is simply the best Head Coach in the NFL, like him or not.)

LAC (3rd best team in the AFC, but destined to be the #5 Seed, but they get the bonus of facing the winner of PIT/CIN)

NEP/BUF (One gets the #3 Seed, while the other gets a Wild Card berth as the #6 Seed and they will face each other in the 1st Rd.)

PIT/CIN (Default #4 Seed of a very crappy team that wins the crappiest Division in the NFL.)

HOU/KCC (The #7 Seed. Who do you think the NFL wants playing at Mile High in the Wild Card Round?)

I think KCC will once again win the west and it won't even be close

[Assembly Hall]

Colts looking for cornerbacks...possible trade with the Bengals?

https://www.profootballrumors.com/indianapolis-colts-news-rumors

[Kingspoint]

Colts looking for cornerbacks...possible trade with the Bengals?

https://www.profootballrumors.com/indianapolis-colts-news-rumors

Lou would know better than anyone if there's someone he could use.

[plantmanky]

Colts peeps I have a question.

What is everyones take on the daughter wearing headset during the game and on the sideline?

[fearofpopvol1]

Colts peeps I have a question.

What is everyones take on the daughter wearing headset during the game and on the sideline?

I think the general consensus was Colts fans never really cared, but some people on social media did and then the media started highlighting it. But then the team started winning like crazy and people realized it wasn't a nuisance. This was not the female Jerry Jones. She wasn't meddling and just wanted to understand the game and what the team was doing. Seems like the public at large has come around on it now as well.

Honestly, she seems kind of reserved. I think she's already going to be preferrable to Dad, who became insufferable in the latter years.

[Sea Ray]

6 turnovers? Way to gift the Steelers a win...

[fearofpopvol1]

No one believes in moral victories, but there are a few interesting stats about this game...

The Colts lost by a touchdown, but they had 6 turnovers to Pittsburgh's 1. They were 5/5 on 4th down. They also won pretty much every other offensive category (and that includes rush yards which neither team had many of).

Clearly need to fix some things but seems doable given the above.

[Kingspoint]

6 turnovers? Way to gift the Steelers a win...

That's a horrible way to treat a Defense. Even Lou can't overcome that one.

[Assembly Hall]

Pitiful.

All I got on yesterday's showing.

[UKFlounder]

Sauce Gardner to the Colts for two 1st-round picks

[Sea Ray]

Sauce Gardner to the Colts for two 1st-round picks

I’m amazed he’s worth that


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Chip R]

I’m amazed he’s worth that


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

I know.

[Kingspoint]

Sauce Gardner to the Colts for two 1st-round picks

Wow!

What a great pickup.

A lock-down CB.

Colts' already very good Defense just got a lot better.

[fearofpopvol1]

Colts' grade: D
Jets' grade: A

Wow. Only four months after inking Gardner to a lucrative extension, the Jets shipped him off to the Colts in a shocking move. And you know what? They were absolutely right to do so.

This was a home run for the Jets, considering the four-year, $120.4 million contract Gardner was on and the compensation they received -- two first-round picks and Mitchell, a second-round pick a year ago.

Let's take this from the Colts' side first. They're getting a player in Gardner who, at his best, is an elite cornerback -- as was the case in his first two seasons in the league in 2022 and 2023. He was a first-team All-Pro in each of those seasons (in addition to being Defensive Rookie of the Year in 2022) and recorded 0.7 yards per coverage snap across those two years, much better than the 1.1 average for an outside cornerback, per NFL Next Gen Stats. That number crept up to 0.9 in 2024 (along with 10 penalties) and then 1.2 this season. If Gardner plays to his full potential, he and Charvarius Ward -- who was having an excellent season prior to suffering a concussion -- could make a ferocious duo when Ward returns.

It's understandable that Indianapolis figured that this was the time to strike. The Colts have had the best offense in football by EPA per play (0.18) this season and the eighth-best defense (minus-0.02). Daniel Jones dropped to seventh in QBR (70.6) after a bad game Sunday, but the Colts possibly have the best rushing attack in the league right now. FPI considers Indianapolis the second-best team in the NFL and gives it an 11% chance to win the Super Bowl. Not only is this their best chance in years, but it's probably the best chance they will have for the next few years.

All of that keeps this deal from being an F for Indianapolis. There is a world where Gardner is the difference between a Super Bowl and not -- and that leverage is certainly worth something. But the cost was enormous. Two first-round picks for Gardner elevates him into a tier of non-QB trade compensation I'm not sure he belongs, alongside players such as Micah Parsons, Laremy Tunsil, Khalil Mack and Jamal Adams (another Jets trade success).

Unlike some of those other deals, Gardner's presumably won't include a new contract by the acquiring team, but make no mistake, the Colts will pay plenty. Gardner's extension included only a $13.75 million signing bonus. The other money is in salary and fully guaranteed option bonuses of $20 million and $10 million in 2026 and 2027. In other words: the Colts paid two first-round picks for the right to take on most of Gardner's extension if they do not alter the contract. They'll owe him $25.5 million, $24.7 million and $20.2 million in cash from 2026 to 2028, respectively.

And as well as the Colts have played, we can't forget how tenuous this might be. They signed Jones to a bridge quarterback's salary in free agency, and he wasn't guaranteed to be their starter a few months ago. It's not unreasonable to still have questions about Jones' viability going forward. Also, he's not under contract beyond this season.

While I mentioned the upside of the deal earlier, we can't overlook the downside: This trade hamstrings the Colts for years to come.

Now for the Jets. It's all gone wrong in New York this season, but I doubt they entered this deadline season dreaming of compensation like this. Yes, they lose a cornerstone player. But this is a team that only cares about 2026 and beyond. The surplus value of two first-round picks is immense -- who is to say that 2027 pick won't be a high selection, either? -- and comes at the ideal team for a resetting a Jets team that needs a quarterback. And they were able to shed the majority of Gardner's contract due to its structure. The Jets proceeding with their rebuild with Gardner on the team was a perfectly fine approach, but this is better.

I'm also a major fan of acquiring Mitchell. While he had fallen out of favor after dropping the football prior to crossing the goal line in Week 4, he still retains major promise. Last season, Mitchell tied for eighth among wide receivers in ESPN's open score with Tyreek Hill and Zay Flowers with an 82 (on a 0-99 scale). While that openness didn't convert in major production due to suboptimal catching from Mitchell, poor quarterback play and limited playing time, it's still an intriguing trait. Between open score, catch score and YAC score, the former is the most important in terms of predicting future success.

Considering the Jets' record, their very lacking receiver depth chart, Mitchell's age (23) and his potential, he is the ideal player for them to bet on.

https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/46201721/2025-nfl-trade-grades-deadline-latest-best-worst-deals

[Kingspoint]

https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/46201721/2025-nfl-trade-grades-deadline-latest-best-worst-deals

The Jets need to find something positive.

Colts get an "A" for the deal, but so do the Jets. Indy probably has the best Defense in the NFL now.

Give Anarumo another piece like this and he's going to take full advantage of it.

[fearofpopvol1]

The Jets need to find something positive.

Colts get an "A" for the deal, but so do the Jets. Indy probably has the best Defense in the NFL now.

Give Anarumo another piece like this and he's going to take full advantage of it.

I think the move was an overpay. Maybe necessary, I don't know on that. They still need an edge rusher to shore up the pass rush to truly have the best defense IMO. Going to need it come playoff time.

[Assembly Hall]

I think the move was an overpay. Maybe necessary, I don't know on that. They still need an edge rusher to shore up the pass rush to truly have the best defense IMO. Going to need it come playoff time.

I agree with everything you said there. But a trip to the AFC championship/SB might just change my mind.

[RiverRat13]

If both picks end up in the mid-20s or later, I don't think it is an overpay. But if Jones comes back to earth next year and that 2027 pick is in the teens, it will be fair to wonder if the Colts gave up too much.

[Kingspoint]

I think the move was an overpay. Maybe necessary, I don't know on that. They still need an edge rusher to shore up the pass rush to truly have the best defense IMO. Going to need it come playoff time.

https://www.profootballrumors.com/2025/11/colts-considered-edge-rushers-before-sauce-gardner-trade

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Still so many of little faith regarding the Colts.

[Kingspoint]

23230

[Assembly Hall]

https://www.profootballrumors.com/2025/11/colts-considered-edge-rushers-before-sauce-gardner-trade

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Still so many of little faith regarding the Colts.

Even before acquiring Sauce my sights were set on the upcoming KC game. Let's see how that goes for the Horseshoes with Sauce in tow.

[Kingspoint]

Lou Anarumo knows how to stop the Chiefs with bad players. With Indy's talent, that's going to be a great game to watch.

[fearofpopvol1]

I agree with everything you said there. But a trip to the AFC championship/SB might just change my mind.

And I agree with that too. It seems like a bit of a down year so it's a good time to strike. Just wish they finished the deal with the edge rush but maybe it'll still be okay.

[Assembly Hall]

Saw on McAfee where Sauce is starting Sunday in Berlin. Wunderbar!!!!!

[Kingspoint]

Huge loss for the Colts.

3-time Pro Bowler DT placed on IR, and with DE already hurting, the LB's and Secondary have to be evem better.

[Assembly Hall]

Taylor had a day.

[dubc47834]

Taylor had a day.

Meh...lol! Good win on the road. ATL isnt a bad team either.

[Kingspoint]

DEF did well.

269 Total Yards

0-8 on 3rd Downs

[fearofpopvol1]

Huge loss for the Colts.

3-time Pro Bowler DT placed on IR, and with DE already hurting, the LB's and Secondary have to be evem better.

This is my biggest concern going forward. They already needed a better pass rush (which unfortunately they didn't address), and then with Buckner going down for at least a month, it could get rough. Jones has to be better than he's been the last couple games too. Hopefully he will.

The KC game will be a huge test. If they win that game, I think they have a real shot at making the Super Bowl.

[Kingspoint]

Definitely a Colts fan this season.

I see the Flags came out in full force in KC today to try to give the Chiefs opportunity at 1st blood.

The holding call was questionable as it didn't effect the play.

The illegal formation call was total B.S., as they were lined up in normal configuration, and far more legal than the Chiefs ever have lined up on Offense for any play.

There's already been highly questionable spots.

No matter.

Anarumo's Defense picks off Holmes and gives the Colts 1st and goal at the 3.

TD Good Guys!

First Blood, Indy.

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This is my biggest concern going forward. They already needed a better pass rush (which unfortunately they didn't address), and then with Buckner going down for at least a month, it could get rough. Jones has to be better than he's been the last couple games too. Hopefully he will.

The KC game will be a huge test. If they win that game, I think they have a real shot at making the Super Bowl.

Def Line promptly gets a pick on their 2nd play.

[Kingspoint]

Refs don't even look at catches that were trapped by the Chiefs inside the 20.

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Chiefs' D-Lineman: "What? Chiefs don't hold on a play where he almost took the helmet off to create a huge hole.

[Kingspoint]

Is Daniel Jones hurt? I saw him jogging on a play to the sideline like he was afraid to get hit.

Nice throw to Dulin for the huge gain after he missed on an easy toss to Taylor in the open field.

[Kingspoint]

Tremendous throw from a collapsing pocket to Ogletree in the back of the endzone to make it 14-3.

What can the refs come up with now to help the Chiefs?

[Kingspoint]

I'll trade the Bengals' D-Lineman named Stewart for the Colts' D-Lineman named Stewart.

[Kingspoint]

Colts with the sack to force a FG attempt.

Chiefs can't take advantage of the gifted roughing-the-passer.

[Kingspoint]

Looks like the Colts were smart to let Ryan Kelly walk.

He didn't make his season debut until today.

[Assembly Hall]

Yes. Another big turnover for the Chiefs.

[Assembly Hall]

Pitiful.

[dubc47834]

Pitiful.

Colts choked late and got conservative.

[fearofpopvol1]

The offensive game plan yesterday was largely lackluster, especially in the second half. Conservative but also pedestrian. And with the weapons the team has on offense, you would've hoped for a better plan. Always seemed like when the Chiefs had to make the play on offense they did and when the Colts had to, they didn't. I know that's not completely accurate, but it felt that way for sure.

I know the team had 3 sacks yesterday, but I couldn't help but think having that extra edge rusher that's needed might have made a big difference. Glaringly true especially with Buckner out. I don't want to be too hard on the defense though--they were largely quite good outside of that TD drive in regulation.

[Sea Ray]

The offensive game plan yesterday was largely lackluster, especially in the second half. Conservative but also pedestrian. And with the weapons the team has on offense, you would've hoped for a better plan. Always seemed like when the Chiefs had to make the play on offense they did and when the Colts had to, they didn't. I know that's not completely accurate, but it felt that way for sure.

I know the team had 3 sacks yesterday, but I couldn't help but think having that extra edge rusher that's needed might have made a big difference. Glaringly true especially with Buckner out. I don't want to be too hard on the defense though--they were largely quite good outside of that TD drive in regulation.

The Colts offense is what you described above. Physical O line, talented RB, game manager at QB. That generally looks like "conservative but pedestrian".

The difference between Mahomes and Daniel Jones is exactly as you described. One has shown the ability time and time again to make a play and the other hasn't.

[Kingspoint]

The Colts offense is what you described above. Physical O line, talented RB, game manager at QB. That generally looks like "conservative but pedestrian".

The difference between Mahomes and Daniel Jones is exactly as you described. One has shown the ability time and time again to make a play and the other hasn't.

I have to disagree. Daniel Jones time and time again came up with remarkable throws yesterday in pressure situations. He's a lot better QB at this point of his career than Mahomes. The Head Coach lost the game yesterday with poor late-game conservativeness. He played not to lose instead of to win, something Bengals fans should recognize having repeatedly seen it with Lewis and Taylor.

Daniel Jones is currently the top-rated QB in the NFL. Game-Managers can't reach that elite echelon.

[Sea Ray]

I have to disagree. Daniel Jones time and time again came up with remarkable throws yesterday in pressure situations. He's a lot better QB at this point of his career than Mahomes. The Head Coach lost the game yesterday with poor late-game conservativeness. He played not to lose instead of to win, something Bengals fans should recognize having repeatedly seen it with Lewis and Taylor.

Daniel Jones is currently the top-rated QB in the NFL. Game-Managers can't reach that elite echelon.

I must say I only saw what came on after the Bengals game but what you describe here is a coach that views his QB as a game manager. Doesn't sound like he has confidence in Jones to let it rip

[Kingspoint]

I must say I only saw what came on after the Bengals game but what you describe here is a coach that views his QB as a game manager. Doesn't sound like he has confidence in Jones to let it rip

Taylor has treated Burrow the same way. Is Burrow a Game Manager?

[Sea Ray]

Taylor has treated Burrow the same way. Is Burrow a Game Manager?

Burrow has won a lot big games for our Bengals. Are you saying this is a coaching issue in Indy?

[Kingspoint]

Burrow has won a lot big games for our Bengals. Are you saying this is a coaching issue in Indy?

No, but there is in Cincinnati. If Indy's Head Coach continues to get conservative near end of games, then there could be an issue. But, for now, it's just a new Head Coach going through the normal processes of learning.

[Assembly Hall]

No, but there is in Cincinnati. If Indy's Head Coach continues to get conservative near end of games, then there could be an issue. But, for now, it's just a new Head Coach going through the normal processes of learning.

Steichen isn't new. I would also venture to say that he is/was on the hot seat just as I would say the GM is/was as well. That being said I like him. I think Shane is a winner. However I wish the hell Jones would work from under center on 3rd and shorts.

[Kingspoint]

Steichen isn't new. I would also venture to say that he is/was on the hot seat just as I would say the GM is/was as well. That being said I like him. I think Shane is a winner. However I wish the hell Jones would work from under center on 3rd and shorts.

Steichen's only had two previous seasons as a Head Coach. That's new. It's the first season he hasn't had a crappy Quarterback. That's new. He's in the learning process, especially when it comes to holding leads against supposedly good teams. That's extremely new for him.

[Kingspoint]

Jones has been dealing with a lower leg issue recently, and NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport reports it is a fracture in his fibula. Rapoport adds Jones intends to continue playing through the injury, citing a source who states the fracture is not a concern. The Colts have neither confirmed nor denied Jones’ reported diagnosis.

https://www.profootballrumors.com/2025/11/colts-qb-daniel-jones-playing-through-fractured-fibula

[Assembly Hall]

Jones has been dealing with a lower leg issue recently, and NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport reports it is a fracture in his fibula. Rapoport adds Jones intends to continue playing through the injury, citing a source who states the fracture is not a concern. The Colts have neither confirmed nor denied Jones’ reported diagnosis.

https://www.profootballrumors.com/2025/11/colts-qb-daniel-jones-playing-through-fractured-fibula

Seeing that makes me think that Jones will be lost for the season in the near future.

[Kingspoint]

That injury may be limiting Jones' attempts today (and effectiveness).

[Kingspoint]

3rd-and-11 from his 20, he just completed a 34-yard pass.

He followed that with a 10-yard completion to HOU's 35 on 3rd-and-9.

The ground game today is being stuffed by the Texans.

He then followed that with a 22-yard completion negated with a holding penalty.

He followed that by earning a Defensive PI.

On the next play he completed a 12-yd TD pass to tie the game late in the 3rd.

So, when they need him most, Daniel Jones is stepping up big time, broken fibula be damned.

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This seems like the moment Lou's Defense gets a Turnover.

[Assembly Hall]

The Refs suck.

[Kingspoint]

December 1st, 2025 at 10:34am CST by Adam La Rose

DECEMBER 1: With the MRI having taken place, Pelissero and colleague Ian Rapoport confirm Gardner suffered a calf strain. He is week-to-week as a result, with the Colts hoping Gardner will be able to return by the end of the regular season.

[fearofpopvol1]

The Refs suck.

I don't usually get too bent out of shape about a call here or there, but the amount missed was actually game altering. You know it's bad when JJ Watt even claims so.

They also need to change the rule on reviewing extra point / field goal attempts.

[WVRed]

The Colts QB situation is so dire that Philip Rivers who last played in 2020 is getting a workout.



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[Revering4Blue]

The Colts QB situation is so dire that Philip Rivers who last played in 2020 is getting a workout.



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Bert Jones wasn’t available?


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[Sea Ray]

You'd think Richardson could play pretty soon. Put a face guard on to protect that fractured area and go to war

[WVRed]

You'd think Richardson could play pretty soon. Put a face guard on to protect that fractured area and go to warI think they are admitting he was a bust.

Sounds like they'd rather commit elder abuse with Philip Rivers.

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[Chip R]

I think with the high price of living these days River's needed this deal to pay for groceries for his 20 kids.

[Assembly Hall]

Rivers is older than Steichen.

[Sea Ray]

That risky Gardner trade couldn’t have worked out worse. He’s hurt. They’re down to PS QBs and looks like no playoffs


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[Assembly Hall]

That risky Gardner trade couldn’t have worked out worse. He’s hurt. They’re down to PS QBs and looks like no playoffs


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What looked so promising goes to hell in a handbasket.

[Sea Ray]

This Indy defense is looking very familiar

Bengal-like


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[Assembly Hall]

This Indy defense is looking very familiar

Bengal-like


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I got nothing.

[Sea Ray]

The FEDs are looking into whether Irsay’s doctor over prescribed him

Think Matthew Perry or Prince here

https://www.washingtonpost.com/sports/2026/01/22/jim-irsay-death-fbi-addiction/


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[Assembly Hall]

The FEDs are looking into whether Irsay’s doctor over prescribed him

Think Matthew Perry or Prince here

https://www.washingtonpost.com/sports/2026/01/22/jim-irsay-death-fbi-addiction/


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My family doctor of 40 years got popped over prescribing opiates. He's not practicing anymore. I miss him.