Colts have a promising future with a well-built roster

Anthony Richardson, the Colts franchise quarterback, needs help in the passing game.

The Indianapolis Colts have a promising future thanks to a well-constructed roster. Indianapolis almost missed the playoffs in 2023, with rookie quarterback Anthony Richardson playing only four games due to a shoulder ailment.

Shane Steichen, the first-year head coach, performed an excellent job and will try to expand on it in his second season. Last season, Gardner Minshew, the backup quarterback, performed admirably in Richardson’s absence, making his first Pro Bowl appearance. However, Minshew is a free agent, and Richardson is the franchise’s quarterback of the future.

With Richardson on track to return, the Colts must focus on developing a core around him. In four games last season, Richardson completed 59.5 percent of his passes for 577 yards, three touchdowns, and one interception. The dual-threat quarterback ran for 136 yards and four touchdowns.

Indianapolis should work on developing quality receiving options for their young quarterback. They franchise-tagged Michael Pittman Jr., allowing them to continue long-term contract negotiations with their top wide receiver. The Colts’ only other proven weapon, after Pittman, is star running back Jonathan Taylor. Indianapolis needs to add a receiver or tight end to the roster to help the offense become an outstanding unit in the coming years.

With that said, here is the perfect NFL trade the Colts must complete in the 2024 offseason.

Colts trade up for a wide receiver in 2024 NFL Draft

Colts receive: ninth overall pick and third-round pick

Bears receive: 15th overall pick and second-round pick

Indianapolis has focused on making their offense more explosive. Pittman is a terrific receiver, but the offense lacks a deep threat capable of producing spectacular plays. Trading up to the ninth overall pick would allow them to select one of the top receivers in the class.

Marvin Harrison Jr. is most likely already taken, but Malik Nabers or Rome Odunze may be available. Nabers and Odunze are dynamic players who the Colts urgently need.

This trade would drop the Bears a few spots in the draft while also elevating them from a third-round pick to a second-round selection. Indianapolis could gain greatly from this transaction, giving them in position to add a big-play threat on offense. This would help Richardson become a great quarterback.

Nabers is coming off an All-American season at LSU, when he caught 89 passes for 1,569 yards and 14 touchdowns. According to NFL.com draft analyst Lance Zierlein, the 20-year-old receiver is exceptionally gifted and has drawn comparisons to Justin Jefferson. He possesses incredible speed and acceleration, making him a difficult cover for defensive backs. Nabers’ leaping ability and speed make him an excellent downfield target.

Odunze is an alternative option for receiver. Odunze had an outstanding season at the University of Washington in 2023, totaling 92 receptions for 1,640 yards and 13 touchdowns. He also rushed for a touchdown. The 21-year-old was compared to Larry Fitzgerald by NFL.com and performed well at the NFL Combine, increasing his draft stock. The 6’3 receiver has good speed and ball skills, and he can make contested receptions down the field.

Nabers and Odunze should be on the Indianapolis draft board.

The Colts have a strong core, but they are not yet on par with the top AFC contenders. Trading up in the draft to get one of the best wide receivers would help Richardson and the offense thrive in 2024 and beyond.