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The Denver Broncos recently traded wide receiver Emmanuel Sanders to the San Francisco 49ers. At 2-5, it is not out of the realm of possibility that there could be more personnel changes in the future.
One intriguing name to watch is star outside linebacker Von Miller. Although trading Miller would certainly indicate that the Broncos are committed to a full-blown rebuild, there is no question that a hypothetical trade for Miller would bring in a massive haul of future assets for the Broncos.
Miller was the MVP of Super Bowl 50. He is the face of the franchise after being named to three All-Pro teams, and is still widely regarded as one of the best pass rushers in football.
Broncos president John Elway suggested that the Broncos would look into potential trades for Miller last January. While Miller has insisted on remaining with the Broncos, a number of contenders could use his services. One of those teams is the Indianapolis Colts.
Out of Luck? Not quite
The Colts entered this season with Super Bowl expectations. Then, superstar quarterback Andrew Luck retired. Luck's decision sent shock waves throughout the league, and the Colts had suddenly gone from a contender to mere foils in the AFC South.
Yet, Indianapolis has defied the common narrative. After a pair of massive wins over the Kansas City Chiefs and Houston Texans, the Colts (4-2) sit atop the division. Jacoby Brissett has dazzled at quarterback, and the Colts have a balanced offensive attack.
The defense has also been stout. Linebacker Darius Leonard continues to build on his impressive rookie season, and the depth of the secondary has managed the loss of safety Malik Hooker.
Adding a pass rusher could put the Colts over the top, and Miller might be worth the investment.
Will Chris Ballard gamble?
Colts general manager Chris Ballard has helped build a winning roster through the NFL Draft. In order to acquire Miller, however, he will have to give up at least one or two first-round picks. Is it worth the risk?
Miller is still only 30 years old. Although he only has 2.5 sacks this season, he still has plenty in the tank. A change of scenery could revitalize Miller's career.
The Colts rank just 20th in sacks. They also rank 20th in passing yards allowed per game. Adding a rusher like Miller would not only allow the Colts to get after the quarterback, but it would also take some pressure off of the secondary while losing nothing in the running game.
Indianapolis also still has plenty of cap space. They could easily absorb Miller's contract and look to renegotiate an extension if he is thinking of opting out.
Will Ballard go for broke and trade for Miller? It is a fit that seems to make sense.