The biggest need for the Indianapolis Colts this offseason was finding a quarterback. The team is hoping that position will be set for years after using the No. 4 pick on Anthony Richardson out of Florida.
Richardson is oozing with potential but it will take a little while for him to realize it as he is considered a raw prospect. But, there is no denying the tools that he possesses as he has an elite combination of measurables and athleticism.
Playing under Shane Steichen, who has worked with Justin Herbert and Jalen Hurts in the NFL, is encouraging for Richardson’s future. If the Colts want him to reach that potential, surrounding him with as much talent as possible would be a good route to take.
Right now, there are a few good pieces in place. Running back Jonathan Taylor struggled with injuries in 2022 but was the most dominant running back in the NFL in 2021. Wide receivers Michael Pittman Jr. and Alec Pierce and tight end Jelani Woods are nice building blocks in the passing game as well.
If the opportunity presented itself, Indianapolis shouldn’t hesitate to keep adding weapons around Richardson. He has a very unique skill set, one that the Colts should do everything they can to take advantage of.
One player that would constitute a huge upgrade for the Colts is wide receiver Mike Evans of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. They were suggested as a landing for him by Kristopher Knox of Bleacher Report. He also makes note that the Buccaneers likely aren’t going to trade Evans, but it is an interesting hypothetical to think about.
What could a trade between the Colts and Buccaneers look like? A suggested trade package would be Indianapolis sending a 2024 second and third-round pick to Tampa Bay in exchange for the star wide receiver.
That is sold value for Evans, who returns a package of draft capital just under what the Green Bay Packers received for Davante Adams. Based on the production each has provided in their careers, it is a pretty fair assessment of Evans’ value.
He would be a great fit for the Colts’ offense, giving Steichen three big wide receivers to move around the formation. Evans, Pittman and Pierce can all be difference makers in the running game with their blocking.
Given how much cap space Indianapolis has, it will be relatively straightforward to absorb Evans’ contract onto their books. A bonafide No. 1 option in the passing game, Evans would make life easier for everyone else on the offense.
