Entering the new season, the Indianapolis Colts are going to rely heavily on a defensive line that has the upside to be one of the best units in the NFL.
With a strong core that includes DeForest Buckner, Grover Stewart, Samson Ebukam, Dayo Odeyingbo and Kwity Paye, the Colts added rookie edge rusher Laiatu Latu to the mix as their first-round pick.
But one NFL analyst believes that should make a blockbuster trade for a star defensive tackle, one that would make the defensive line truly elite.
Ryan Fowler of Bleacher Report suggested the Colts trade a 2025 second-round and a 2026 fourth-round pick to the Washington Commanders for star Jonathan Allen.
Adding a defender with the skill set of Jonathan Allen could be the addition that elevates the Colts in a loaded AFC. The two-time Pro Bowler is a force within the interior that has evolved into one of the leagues premier three-down defensive tackles.
As the Colts look to keep pace with the Houston Texans, Jacksonville Jaguars and an improving Tennessee Titans roster in the AFC South, adding Allen to the mix is the type of move that elevates a rosters performance ceiling.
While this is a move unlikely to happen, it’s a fun idea to explore. Sending two draft picks for a star defensive tackle like Allen would bolster an already strong defensive line.
Imagine having an interior trio of Buckner, Stewart and Allen with Ebukam, Paye, Odeyingbo and Latu on the edge. Not to mention the depth provided by Tyquan Lewis as well.
Allen is under contract for the next two seasons with cap hits of $21.4 and $23 million in 2024 and 2025, respectively. It’s financially feasible, but it certainly would take a toll on the cap.
Allen has been a consistent winner as a pass-rusher and would thrive in Gus Bradley’s attacking front. He has finished 14th, 10th and 2nd in total pressures among defensive tackles over the last three seasons, respectively.
It’s a pipe dream most likely, but it’s a fun scenario to entertain ahead of training camp.