Indianapolis Colts owner Carlie Irsay-Gordon just let the rest of the NFL know a rebuild is coming in Indianapolis after the firing of general manager Chris Ballard on Monday. Irsay-Gordon ended Ballard's regime six games into his 10th season in charge. Indianapolis made the playoffs twice (2018 and 2020), going 1-2 in those two trips.
The Colts' 72-82-1 regular-season record under his management ranked 17th in the league during Ballard's reign. Indianapolis's five straight missed playoffs represent the Colts' longest drought in over 40 years. An AFC South title never happened with Ballard.
Now, the Colts are set to start over in 2027 with a new front office. Now is the time to rebuild since the 2027 NFL Draft is widely regarded as one of the most loaded classes in years. One issue is that the Colts don't have a first-round pick, thanks to trading their 2026 and 2027 first-round draft choices, along with wide receiver Adonai Mitchell, to the New York Jets last season in exchange for All-Pro cornerback Sauce Gardner.
So, who could Indianapolis trade away to recoup some draft pick value? Well, three-time Pro Bowl defensive tackle DeForest Buckner basically put out a trade request after losing 26-20 at home against the previously 0-5 Tennessee Titans in Week 6. "I'm sick and tired of the same song and dance every year," Buckner told reporters postgame on Sunday.
Buckner is 32 years old and a pending free agent next spring, but he could provide an immediate impact for a team looking to contend this season. His 4.0 sacks through six weeks are tied for the 10th most in the NFL, while his 19 quarterback pressures rank as the seventh most among defensive tackles in 2026. For a real deal contender, Buckner could be worth a third-or fourth-round pick.
Who could inquire to be Buckner's new NFL landing spot? Let's take a look at four potential landing spots. The 49ers make too much sense.
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