Sauce Gardner Could Be Part of Colts’ Fire Sale Before Trade Deadline: Report
One NFL insider says the Colts want to tear the roster “down to the studs," which could include shipping off CB Sauce Gardner.
The Indianapolis Colts, once a contender in the AFC, are now actively seeking to make moves ahead of the trade deadline. After a 42-7 loss to the Jacksonville Jaguars, the team is reportedly open to making three or four more trades as part of an effort to "tear the roster down to the studs." Running back Jonathan Taylor remains a notable name on the trade list, but cornerback Sauce Gardner is also being considered for a potential deal.
Gardner, who was acquired from the New York Jets last year in exchange for the team's 2026 and 2027 first-round picks and wide receiver Adonai Mitchell, is set to return from a minor injury in Week 8. However, the team would likely have to assume $26 million of his guaranteed salary to facilitate a trade. La Canfora, an NFL insider, noted that Gardner's contract, combined with that of teammate Charvarius Ward who is due $18 million in 2027 with no guarantees, suggests that something must change.
The idea of moving Gardner is not new. The Colts sent their 2026 and 2027 first-round draft picks, along with Mitchell, to the Jets in a trade for Gardner during last season's deadline. Gardner played just three games with the Colts last season due to a calf injury and the team went on to finish 8-9 and miss the playoffs. With the Colts currently at 2-6, the value of Gardner's remaining contract may be even more uncertain as they look to rebuild for the future.
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