At least two clubs have discussed the concept of trading for Colts running back Frank Gore, according to Stephen Holder of the Indianapolis Star. At present, it’s unclear if those deliberations were internal in nature, or if the Colts have in fact explored Gore’s trade value via trade negotiations.
Without quarterback Andrew Luck available, Indianapolis isn’t seriously contending for a playoff spot, and Gore isn’t the only Colts veteran who’s been mentioned in trade rumors this week. Cornerback Vontae Davis, wide receiver T.Y. Hilton, and offensive tackle Anthony Castonzo have all been tossed out as potential trade chits, and while some of those potential deals could be more likely than others, Gore makes sense as a player who could be on the move.
Now in his 13th NFL season, Gore would likely be open to playing for a contending team going forward, per Holder. Any club that acquires Gore would do on the cheap, at least from a financial perspective. The 34-year-old back is earning $3.5MM this season, so an acquiring team would be responsible for just $1.75MM for the remainder of the year.
Whether Gore is worth that salary (plus whatever draft compensation the Colts can wrangle) is a fair question. Gore has managed just 3.8 yards per carry since joining Indianapolis in 2015, and has recently ceded work to rookie Marlon Mack. He’s also been ineffective in the passing game, as he’s posted just 14 receptions and earned poor pass-blocking grades from Pro Football Focus. Of course, Gore’s disappointing numbers have come behind an offensive line that ranks just 27th in adjusted line yards.
Trade chits
Seattle?