NFL trade deadline: One move every team should make
By Joe Schiller
19. Indianapolis Colts: Trade for Matt Forte
The Indianapolis Colts have always had trouble at running back and it’s been more of the same this season. Averaging under 100 yards a game on the ground this season, the Colts still don’t seem to have an answer in the backfield. They are missing a dimension out of the backfield they haven’t had and that’s a threat in the receiving game. A move they should make ahead of the trade deadline would be inquiring about Matt Forte.
Marlon Mack has been exciting as a fourth-round rookie for the Colts, but still has ways to go. Frank Gore has been the consistent veteran in the backfield but isn’t the threat he used to be at this stage in his career. Neither of these backs really bring any threat in the passing game and that’s where Forte comes in.
Forte really has struggled to see consistent snaps in the Jets offense this season. Bilal Powell and rookie Elijah McGuire have been the go-to options and it looks like Forte could be falling out of favor. This is the perfect time for the Colts to strike a deal for the veteran running back. Forte certainly isn’t the runner he used to be but brings a dangerous element in the receiving game. He’s shifty and can make defenders miss. He’s one of those players that defenders hate trying to tackle in the open field.
A big reason for Andrew Luck’s injury problems has been because he’s had to do everything by himself offensively. Forte could help bring balance to an offense that’s struggled even with Luck healthy. Fans are getting impatient and time may be running out for Chuck Pagano’s stint with the Colts. This wouldn’t be a blockbuster move but one that could help the Colts turn things around in the second half of the season.