Colts Trade Quenton Nelson to Seahawks as More Players Face Deadline Questions

Nelson heads to Seattle

The Seahawks acquired left guard Quenton Nelson from Indianapolis. Seattle can now consider moving Gray Zabel to right guard, a position he played in college. Nelson’s contract is expiring, and as of early Tuesday afternoon, no extension agreement with Seattle had been reported. Interim Colts general manager Ed Dodds previously worked for the Seahawks from 2007 to 2016.

Colts weigh further moves

The trade could be an early step in a wider reshaping of the Colts’ roster. Reports have named running back Jonathan Taylor, defensive linemen DeForest Buckner and Grover Stewart, wide receivers Josh Downs and Keenan Allen, and defensive tackle Jerry Tillery as possible trade candidates before Nov. 10.

The Colts’ reported trade considerations followed a loss to the Minnesota Vikings that left the team at 2-5. Irsay-Gordon had dismissed Ballard after Indianapolis lost to the previously winless Tennessee Titans in Week 6.

Seattle strengthens its line

Seattle’s offense had appeared to need help before the team defeated the Kansas City Chiefs 20-3 on Sunday night, improving its record to 4-3. The Seahawks now have Nelson, a 30-year-old widely regarded as one of the league’s top guards. The Colts’ decision to trade Nelson suggests Irsay-Gordon may not expect Indianapolis to make a strong run this fall.