Colts Safety Deemed Trade Fit for NFC Contender

In the middle of a rebuilding year, the Indianapolis Colts are 3-4 on the year. By the October 31st trade deadline, they most likely won’t be buyers. They could, however, trade one or two players without materially lowering their caliber of play.

Security as the deadline draws nearer, interest in Julian Blackmon is growing. ESPN identified Blackmon as a possible trade target earlier this week, and now NFL.com’s Kevin Patra is going all in, identifying the Detroit Lions as the best fit.

“If the Colts are looking to find a way to get 2022 third-round pick Nick Cross on the field more, they could make it easier by shipping out Blackmon, who is in the final year of his rookie contract,” Patra wrote on NFL.com.

“The secondary for the Lions is hurt and could use some help. A versatile defender like Blackmon might help Detroit overcome its injury woes. Before switching to strong safety this season, the former third-round pick played free safety for his first three seasons.

“Blackmon also has played 103 snaps at slot corner for Indianapolis this season and has a 62.3 passer rating against, 12th-best among safeties, per PFF.”

Blackmon has a total grade of 77.0, which ranks him as the 11th safest player in the NFL. This season, Cross has only played 10 defensive snaps.

As the NFC’s second-seeded team right now, the Lions ought to be prepared to give up future draft picks in order to maintain their position as contenders.

Blackmon, whose rookie contract is about to expire, will be reasonably priced on a second contract. He recently turned 25. He might be viewed as a cornerstone for the Colts’ future, but there would be no shortage of suitors if he were to be considered disposable.