[NFL] Colts Rebuild Could Send Nelson to Contender by Nov. 10 Deadline

[Mickey the Mouth]

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The Indianapolis Colts are tearing it down. Owner Carlie Irsay-Gordon fired general manager Chris Ballard six games into his 10th season, signaling a full rebuild for 2027. The Colts went 72-82-1 under Ballard, missed the playoffs five straight years, and traded away their 2026 and 2027 first-round picks for Jets cornerback Sauce Gardner.

That leaves Quenton Nelson as their most valuable trade chip. The eight-time Pro Bowler is Pro Football Focus' highest-graded guard this season at 89.2 and hits free agency after the season. At 30, he is a rental or extension candidate who could command a second-round pick, maybe a first if bidding intensifies before the Nov. 10 deadline.

The New York Giants make sense: Nelson is from New Jersey, and their last Pro Bowl interior lineman was Chris Snee in 2012. The Minnesota Vikings, who host Indianapolis in Week 7, need offensive help despite their 5-0 start. The Green Bay Packers, San Francisco 49ers and Houston Texans also profile as logical suitors for a win-now blocker.

Mickey's Angle: Nelson is the best guard available and rental prices at the deadline rarely dip—watch for Minnesota or Green Bay to push hardest after getting eyes on him in Week 7.

Source: CBS Sports - written by Mickey the Mouth from the original report.