The Indianapolis Colts showcased a promising defensive effort last weekend against the Chicago Bears, securing a much-needed win. However, the game highlighted both the strengths and weaknesses of the Colts’ defensive unit. Rookie quarterback Caleb Williams struggled significantly, turning the ball over three times, but even so, the Colts’ defense allowed the Bears to amass 395 total yards of offense. While the victory is largely attributed to defensive coordinator Gus Bradley’s group, questions remain about the secondary’s ability to hold up as the season progresses.
Mixed Results Against the Bears
Despite the victory, the performance against Chicago revealed vulnerabilities that the Colts will need to address if they aim to remain competitive in the AFC. Williams managed to throw his first two NFL touchdowns against a secondary that, despite its youth and potential, showed signs of inconsistency. The Colts’ defensive backs struggled to contain the Bears’ receivers, raising alarms about their capability to defend against more potent offenses down the road.
Bleacher Report’s Alex Ballentine voiced skepticism regarding the effectiveness of the Colts’ young secondary. He believes that a strategic move could be beneficial, specifically pointing to Washington Commanders cornerback Emmanuel Forbes as a trade target. According to Ballentine, Forbes could greatly benefit from a “fresh start,” and the Colts might just be the team to provide that opportunity.
The Case for Emmanuel Forbes
Emmanuel Forbes was drafted 16th overall by the Commanders out of Mississippi State but has faced challenges adapting to the NFL. His rookie season didn’t unfold as expected, but he remains a player with immense potential. For the Colts, bringing Forbes on board could represent a low-risk investment in a position that is clearly in need of reinforcement.
At just 23 years old, Forbes has the physical attributes that make him an intriguing prospect for the Colts. Standing with a wingspan of 6-foot-7, he fits the mold of what Colts general manager Chris Ballard typically looks for in a cornerback. His long arms can be advantageous when matching up against larger receivers, allowing him to disrupt passing lanes while still maintaining the agility necessary to keep up with quicker opponents.
During his rookie season, Forbes recorded one interception but also allowed three touchdowns and 598 yards in coverage over 14 games. These statistics paint a picture of a player still finding his footing in the league, but his raw talent and potential upside make him an appealing option for a Colts secondary that has been inconsistent.
A Strategic Move for the Future
The Colts’ front office has held onto all their draft picks for 2025 thus far, which provides them with some leverage should they decide to pursue a trade. If the Colts feel the pressure to bolster their secondary—especially after facing strong offenses in the coming weeks—a future draft pick might be an acceptable price to pay for a player like Forbes.
The urgency to make a move could intensify if the Colts’ secondary struggles against the Pittsburgh Steelers this weekend. If quarterback Justin Fields exposes gaps in their pass defense, it would only amplify calls for a strategic addition to the roster. A significant performance from Fields could compel the Colts to act swiftly to address the defensive concerns.
Conclusion
As the Colts navigate the complexities of the NFL season, the potential addition of Emmanuel Forbes could provide a much-needed boost to their secondary. While the young cornerback has faced his own challenges, a fresh start with a new team could be exactly what he needs to unlock his full potential. For the Colts, investing in a player with high upside may prove to be a wise decision, especially as they strive to solidify their defensive unit moving forward.
With the team still searching for answers in the secondary, the decision to explore trade options may not just be a reaction to immediate performance, but also a proactive approach to securing the future of the defense. As the Colts prepare for their upcoming matchup against the Steelers, all eyes will be on their secondary to see if they can rise to the occasion—or if a shakeup is indeed on the horizon.