After an 0-2 start, the Indianapolis Colts are close to having their backs against the wall.
Soon enough, the front office may need to look into making some moves one way or another.
Bleacher Report’s Kristopher Knox released an “NFL trade block big board” entering Week 3.
In the article, he listed the top trade candidates around the league, and Colts linebacker E.J. Speed was listed at No. 7.
“The Colts are sitting at 0-2, and while they shouldn’t be giving up on the season this early, they may eventually reach that point. If it happens before the trade deadline, linebacker E.J. Speed could be moved,” Knox wrote.
Last season, Speed emerged as a leader for the Colts’ defense, racking up a career-high 102 combined tackles, 12 tackles for loss, four passes defended, three forced fumbles, and one sack.
In 2024, the linebacker has not slowed down. In two games, he already has recorded 21 combined tackles.
Speed is 29 years old and will become a free agent this offseason. As Knox mentioned, “giving up” after two games is ridiculous, but if the team continues to struggle, the Colts could become sellers at the deadline. If the right deal comes along, trading Speed makes sense.
Knox listed the Buffalo Bills and Philadelphia Eagles as two potential landing spots.
“The Buffalo Bills might want to consider Speed after losing linebacker Terrel Bernard to a pectoral injury in Week 2. His absence is expected to be an extended one,” Knox wrote. “The Eagles should also try snagging Speed because of his ability to defend all areas of the field, attack the run and defend the pass.”
If the Colts trade Speed, 2024 fifth-round pick Jaylon Carlies could step into the starting lineup. The experience would be valuable for his development.
Carlies is a former safety, who transitioned to linebacker. In college, he played for Missouri, leading the Tigers in tackles twice.
MORE COLTS
Colts offense could get massive reinforcements in Week 3
NFL picks, predictions Week 3: Colts vs. Bears
Colts make several practice squad moves
