Jim Irsay lays out Colts' plans for 2023 NFL Draft amid Lamar Jackson trade rumors

Lamar Jackson could be playing for a new team during the 2023 NFL season after formally requesting a trade from the Baltimore Ravens. The two sides have failed several times to come to an agreement on a long-term contract extension, putting the superstar quarterback's future in limbo.

While Jackson has been linked to trade rumors involving several teams, the Indianapolis Colts have been at the center of many of them. The franchise is in desparate need of a new quarterback after releasing Carson Wentz and Matt Ryan in each of the past two seasons.

The Colts currently own the fourth overall pick in the upcoming 2023 NFL Draft. They could potentially use this selection on a quarterback prospect or include it in a trade for Lamar Jackson.

According to Colts insider Zak Keefer, owner Jim Irsay recently discussed his team's plans for the quarterback position during the 2023 NFL offseason:

"The owner wants the draft-and-develop route, preferring the chance to grow his own while capitalizing on the financial flexibility a young quarterback's contract affords the team.

"He said last week that though the type of contract disgruntled Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson is seeking is 'no problem' — likely north of $150 million fully guaranteed, at the very least — it's the lost draft capital (two first-round picks) and salary-cap restrictions that have tempered Irsay's interest in such a blockbuster move."

A look at the Colts' next few weeks:

➡️ Yes, Irsay will be watching film of the top QBs
➡️ The only way he'd overrule Ballard/Steichen's pick
➡️ A debate about prospects in the draft room: "Does he love football, or does he like what football brings?"

theathletic.com/4380812/2023/0…

Keefer went on to explain that Jim Irsay is open to all possible options for his next quarterback as long as they fit within the system of his new head coach Shane Steichen and the financial structure of the franchise. He expressed that the decision comes down to a matter of preference for Steichen and general manager Chris Ballard.

Who will the Colts' QB be in 2023 NFL season if they pass on Lamar Jackson?

Unless the Colts agree to a blockbuster trade to acquire former NFL MVP Lamar Jackson, they will almost definitely use their fourth overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft on one of the quarterback prospects. This year's draft class features four quarterbacks who are projected to be top picks, creating an interesting scenario in Indianapolis.

Bryce Young, CJ Stroud, Will Levis and Anthony Richardson are considered the elites of this class. While having the fourth pick guarantees that at least one of the four prospects will still be available, the Colts may not have a choice of which one they can draft. They could potentially default to whichever one remains, unless they make a bold move to trade up a few spots.