The Indianapolis Colts are a promising team entering the new season, but there are concerns about the depth in the secondary.
Specifically at outside cornerback, the Colts are relying on unproven talent to lead the way in Gus Bradley's defense.
Despite the unlikely odds of it coming to fruition, one NFL analyst believes the Colts should be in the market to add a seasoned veteran with a long track record of success.
In a proposed blockbuster trade from Alex Ballentine of Bleacher Report that would "alter the division race" in the AFC South, the Colts add New Orleans Saints cornerback Marshon Lattimore.
"Trade chatter surrounding the Saints cover man has quieted, but it still makes sense for New Orleans to listen to offers on him. Paulson Adebo is up for a new contract and they just drafted Kool-Aid McKinstry. They could have a youth movement of their own in the secondary," Ballentine wrote. "Lattimore would give the Colts a definite answer across from JuJu Brents at cornerback. The 28-year-old gave up just 6.4 yards per target last season."
It would be a surprising move for general manager Chris Ballard to pull off, but it's one that would be an intriguing addition to the secondary.
Lattimore has dealt with some injury issues over the last two seasons. He was limited to just seven games in 2022 after suffering a lacerated kidney in Week 5 and appeared in 10 games due to an ankle injury last season.
Despite the injuries, Lattimore is still a strong option on the boundary. According to Pro Football Focus , Lattimore has allowed an 80.5 passer rating on 171 targets over the last three seasons. Furthermore, Lattimore has thrived in zone coverage during that span, allowing a 76.3 passer rating on 95 targets.
While the Colts wouldn't have to pay a massive fee in a hypothetical trade, he wouldn't be super cheap. There's also the matter of his cap hits over the next three seasons — $14.6 million in 2024 before jumping up to $31.4 and $28.6 million the following seasons, respectively.
Though, there is no guaranteed money after 2024, which is something that might ease the burden.
The Colts have major question marks in the secondary, but adding a talent like Lattimore — albeit a somewhat expensive talent — would go a long way in addressing a concerning area.
MORE COLTS
Winners and losers from Colts' preseason win over Cardinals
Colts' roster projection includes surprise trade
Colts head coach makes emphatic statement about struggling kicker
Local Indianapolis, IN
Most Popular
Comments / 0