The Indianapolis Colts had not been linked to top-tier quarterback options in NFL free agency. Even after releasing veteran Matt Ryan following one season in Indy, the Colts were biding their time.
It has now paid off with Gardner Minshew heading to Indianapolis on a one-year, $3.5 million contract. According to NFL Media’s Tom Pelissero, the deal comes with significant incentives that could led to Minshew earning a lot more.
As of right now, Minshew actually has to be considered QB1 in Indianapolis. The only other options currently on the roster right now are Nick Foles and Sam Ehlinger. It also seems to be a pretty good bet that the Colts will move on from Foles.
Gardner Minshew stats: 62.8% completion, 6,632 yards, 44 TD, 15 INT, 93.1 QB rating
As you can see, Minshew has played well in limited action since the Jacksonville Jaguars made him a sixth-round pick out of Washington State back in 2019. Minshew started 12 games as a rookie back in 2019, throwing 21 touchdowns against six interceptions.
Once Jacksonville opted to select Trevor Lawrence first overall back in 2021, he was sent to the Philadelphia Eagles in a trade. Minshew started two games in Jalen Hurts’ stead late last season for the defending NFC Champion Eagles.
Related: Sportsnaut’s NFL free agent tracker with grades
What the addition of Gardner Minshew means for the Indianapolis Colts
Selecting fourth overall in the 2023 NFL Draft, it’s a foregone conclusion that general manager Chris Ballard is looking for a quarterback. Indianapolis has dealt with veteran journeyman after veteran journeyman since Andrew Luck’s shocking retirement immediately ahead of the 2019 season.
Even then, Minshew could act as a stopgap option for the Indianapolis Colts. New Colts head coach Shane Steichen was the Eagles’ offensive coordinator a season ago. Minshew knows his system pretty well. That obviously played a role in the decision-making process.