NFL Trade Rumors: Insider reveals new QB on Colts radar to replace Carson Wentz
After trading Carson Wentz to the Washington Commanders, the Indianapolis Colts are hunting for a new quarterback. They've been linked to big-name quarterbacks like Kirk Cousins and Jimmy Garoppolo, who are rumored to be on the move. But a surprising name is being floated as a potential replacement for Wentz: Philadelphia Eagles backup QB Gardner Minshew.
Name to watch in trade if the Colts can't land Cousins or another proven starter: Gardner Minshew.
Minshew was the backup quarterback in Philadelphia behind Jalen Hurts last season and performed admirably when the first-choice quarterback had to sit out a few games. His performance in Hurts' absence may be why the Colts are interested in him.
Colts fans aren't too pleased with this report.
@JasonLaCanfora Really? That is where we are now? Gardner Minshew
But according to CBS Sports' Jason La Canfora, Minshew is just a plan B. The Colts will only pursue this option only if they fail to land a big-name quarterback like Kirk Cousins or Jimmy Garoppolo. The Colts' primary target, reportedly, is Cousins.
Kirk Cousins had a good year for the Minnesota Vikings. He threw for over 4200 yards and 33 touchdowns. Cousins seems like the ideal fit for the Colts if they decide to go in that direction. And according to reports, the Vikings are very open to trading Cousins to the Colts. La Canforna reported:
"Kirk Cousins is the next QB domino to fall, with the Vikings very open to dealing him, and the Colts and Seahawks are among the possible landing spots."
Cousins is expected to make some big bucks this upcoming season, which is perhaps why the Vikings might be willing to part with him. The Vikings are going to owe Cousins $66 million this upcoming season.
What other options do the Colts have?
The Colts' first option is Kirk Cousins, and their last resort is Gardner Minshew. But who else do the Colts have in mind?
49ers' Jimmy Garoppolo is searching for a new home, and he might fit right into the Colts' offense. He's also a midwestern guy (played at Eastern Illinois) and a two-time Super Bowl champion.
Having employed Peyton Manning and Andrew Luck in the past, Colts fans are used to elite quarterback play. At the moment, Cousins is looking like the team's best bet.
The Colts are in a winnable division. If they can find a quarterback to hold down the fort, so to speak, this franchise could contend for an AFC title.