Indianapolis sends the eight-time Pro Bowl guard to Seattle for a 2027 third-round pick and a 2028 fifth-round pick as the 2-5 Colts turn seller.
The Colts, sitting at 2-5 under new interim GM Ed Dodds, made their first big move ahead of the Nov. 10 trade deadline on Tuesday, shipping left guard Quenton Nelson to the Seahawks. In return, Indianapolis gets a 2027 third-round pick and a 2028 fifth-round pick.
Nelson, 30, is an eight-time Pro Bowler who has anchored the Colts' offensive line since being drafted in the sixth round back in 2018. The move wasn't exactly stunning insiders, since Indianapolis officials weren't planning to re-sign him when he hits free agency in 2027 anyway. Still, trading a player of Nelson's caliber in-season is a clear signal the Colts are shifting focus toward the future rather than chasing anything this year.
For Seattle, the trade addresses a glaring need up front. The Seahawks get an accomplished veteran who can help stabilize the interior line and give their rushing attack a boost. Nelson still needs to pass a physical to officially finalize things, but the team has already cleared a roster spot for him.
The deal also raises questions about who else might be available out of Indianapolis before the deadline, with speculation already swirling that this could be the start of a broader sell-off.