High-profile trades just don' happen in the NFL that all that often. When they do, at least recently, they usually involve the Indianapolis Colts.
In 2012, Indy traded a second-round pick to the Miami Dolphins for cornerback Vontae Davis. In 2013, the Colts shipped a first-rounder to the Cleveland Browns for running back Trent Richardson. Clearly, Colts brass is unafraid of making bold moves. Now might be the time for yet another.
The Colts could use some help on defense. They finished last season 18th in rushing defense (113.4 yards allowed per game) and 26th in total tackles. Despite racking up 44 sacks as a team, no individual player topped Jonathan Newsome's 6.5. With Robert Mathis turning 34 and returning from a serious injury, there is no guarantee the Colts will have a consistent pass-rushing threat. If they want to take that next step as a team and play for Super Bowls, they are going to have to upgrade on defense.
That is why Tom Gower of Football Outsiders believes the team should trade a first-round pick for Buffalo Bills defensive tackle Marcell Dareus.
"Newsome showed he is a developing force on the inside, but what the Colts could really use is an interior penetrator who is also strong against the run," Gower wrote. "Dareus fits the bill perfectly. He had 10.5 sacks in 2015 and would provide an immediate upgrade to a mostly underwhelming Indianapolis defensive line. He was also a force against the run, making more plays, and more successful plays, than any other Buffalo defensive lineman. Just 25, he should be an outstanding player for several years to come, making him a perfect fit for a Colts team not looking at a brief window of opportunity. And the Bills need a first-round pick badly to replace the pick they dealt to Cleveland to get Sammy Watkins a year ago."
There had been some talk of a potential Dareus trade, as it is unknown how well he will fit into new head coach Rex Ryan's defense. However, moving on from the former third overall pick after such a successful season seems unlikely.
