The Indianapolis Colts made one of the most significant moves at the 2025 trade deadline by acquiring All-Pro cornerback Sauce Gardner from the New York Jets. Indianapolis sent two future first-round picks in 2026 and 2027 along with wide receiver AD Mitchell to complete the transaction.
The deal represented a clear commitment from the Colts to strengthen their roster for immediate contention while addressing long-term defensive needs. The trade has sparked questions about what it means for the franchise’s future, particularly regarding their quarterback situation.
Insider Tom Pelissero addressed those questions during a recent appearance on The Rich Eisen Show, offering insight into how the move reflects Indianapolis’s broader strategy.
“If they’re able to get something done with Daniel Jones, it is going to be a big-money type of a contract. They can’t lean on that. But I think the important thing to understand here is this is not just a, ‘all right, we are going for it right now.’ It’s also, this was getting a 24-year-old All-Pro player that they have under contract for a certain amount of years to come. They still got 7 picks, by the way, in the 2026 draft. So, the Colts didn’t give up like their entire class to do it,” Pelissero said.
Does the Sauce Gardner trade indicate #ForTheShoe has found their QB of the future in Daniel Jones?#NFL pic.twitter.com/9RWwErvbPB
— Rich Eisen Show (@RichEisenShow) November 7, 2025
Pelissero explained that Indianapolis favored Jones over Anthony Richardson because the current roster construction allows flexibility at the quarterback position. The scheme designed by the coaching staff combined with Lou Anarumo’s defensive system and a strong group of playmakers gives the Colts options if needed.
Jones has positioned himself as the franchise centerpiece through his play this season, and a substantial contract extension appears likely if his production continues. Jones signed a one-year deal worth $14 million in March, and his performance since then has exceeded expectations.
The Colts still have several months before the offseason to determine whether this resurgence can be sustained over a longer period. That evaluation will ultimately shape their decision on committing significant resources to Jones as their long-term answer at quarterback.
NEXT: Sauce Gardner Reveals Thoughts On Being Traded To The Colts
