Brissett, who began his career with the Patriots, is cited as a possible bridge option if New England want to add a cheap veteran, while also using a high draft pick on a QB. But while Rivers retires, the Colts can retain the 28-year-old, who has started 30 games for them over the past four seasons. Ryan Fitzpatrick and Tyrod Taylor would also fit this form.
If they’re looking for a higher quality replacement, the Colts could try to praise Detroit’s Matthew Stafford or reunite head coach Frank Reich with Carson Wentz, although Wentz’s inflated Philadelphia Eagles contract gives him a lesser likely trade candidate. Stafford will earn a base salary of just $ 9.5 million in 2021, but it is not yet clear whether the new leaders of the Lions can move him. Roof Prescott is the leading free agent for free agency, but we will not bet he will leave the Dallas Cowboys.
The Colts could also target Newton if they believe New England’s offensive structure and poor skill position are more to blame for his fight than the QB’s own contradiction. Other looming UFAs include Jameis Winston, Mitchell Trubisky and Andy Dalton.
From a draft perspective, New England and Indianapolis can both wheel in for the second and third tier quarterback prospects available this spring.
The Colts currently possess the 21st overall pick in the 2021 NFL draft. Would they take a chance on Alabama’s Mac Jones if the Patriots surrendered at No. 15? Or are you considering an aggressive exchange for someone like North Dakota State’s Trey Lance?
Regardless of how Ballard and his staff decide to continue this off-season, the consequences of Rivers’ retirement will also be felt in New England.
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