The Indianapolis Colts have started the season at 0-2 following a disappointing 16-10 loss to the Green Bay Packers, led by backup quarterback Malik Willis. While rookie QB Anthony Richardson and the Colts’ offense struggled, they only had about 20 minutes of possession. The defense, however, appeared confused and overwhelmed, particularly against Packers running back Josh Jacobs.
In a recent Bleacher Report article analyzing how each NFL team can improve before Week 3, it was suggested that the Colts consider trading for Jonathan Jones, a two-time Super Bowl champion cornerback from the New England Patriots. The article noted that Jones, who is in the final year of his contract, could bring much-needed veteran experience to Indianapolis’ secondary. Since the Patriots are not expected to be strong contenders this season, they might be open to trading Jones, which could also help improve their 2025 draft position.
Jonathan Jones has had a solid career spanning nine seasons, winning Super Bowls with the Patriots in 2017 and 2019. He’s played in 117 games, starting 59, and has accumulated 389 tackles, forced eight fumbles, deflected 52 passes, intercepted 11, and scored on a 55-yard defensive touchdown. In 2022, Jones started 14 games for New England and earned strong marks from Pro Football Focus, including a 75.1 coverage grade and a 74.0 rating in run defense.
At 31, Jones remains a talented and effective cornerback and likely wouldn’t require a major trade package. However, the Colts may not be in a position to part with assets, having spent the offseason focusing on retaining key players like wide receiver Michael Pittman Jr. and linebacker Zaire Franklin. While acquiring Jones isn’t a bad idea, it seems unlikely Indianapolis would make a move given their current priorities.
The Colts are moving forward with a banged-up secondary, including veteran Kenny Moore II and rookie Jaylon Jones, as starter JuJu Brents deals with a knee injury. If the Colts hope to stay competitive in 2024, they must rebound in Week 3 against the Chicago Bears and shore up their run defense. Falling to 0-3 could severely hinder their chances this season, making Sunday’s game at Lucas Oil Stadium critical to their hopes of turning things around.
